bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study on Artificial Intelligence – Driven Inventory Solutions and Enhancing Manufacturing Efficiency
Authors: - Bharathi N S yadav , - Sathvik K U , - Raghava J , - Yashwanth B S
Published: January 2024

Artificial Intelligence is pivotal in transforming Manufacturing and Inventory management practices and maintaining this delicate inventory balance. AI-driven predictive forecasting, for instance, considers historical data, seasonality, and market dynamics to provide exceptionally accurate demand forecasts. Managing inventory has become a complex puzzle in today’s fast-paced business world. As companies expand their reach and cater to a global audience, tracking inventory and maintaining an accurate “available-to-promise” status in real time has become a challenge. In the current competitive landscape, retailers prioritise a seamless approach to inventory management, especially with the growing importance of omnichannel fulfilment. The art of balancing supply and demand while keeping costs in check has become a high-stakes game where every piece of the inventory puzzle must fit perfectly. In this article, we explore the remarkable role of Artificial intelligence in Manufacturing and Inventory management. We will discuss how businesses can harness the power of AI to optimize their efficiency in Manufacturing and Inventory processes.
Examining the Relevance of a Uniform Civil Code in India
Authors: - SALONI SHARAN
Published: January 2024

Abstract
India is a multicultural country with a rich tapestry of religions and cultures. It must negotiate a complicated legal system with many different personal laws. The debate over the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) continues to be one of great importance as it attempts to harmonize private law regardless of religious beliefs. This study explores the many facets of the UCC, examining its applicability, difficulties, and possible ramifications within the Indian setting.
The paper provides a thorough analysis, looking at the intellectual foundations and historical development of the UCC. Examining the socio-cultural processes, it recognizes the need to maintain cultural variety while pursuing legal consistency. The study evaluates a UCC's possible effects on inheritance, family dynamics, individual rights, and the stability of society.
Constitutional principles and legal nuances are carefully analyzed, demonstrating how difficult it is to unify disparate personal laws under a single code. The study examines gender equality and how women's rights may be redefined within the context of personal laws through the implementation of a standard code.
The report also outlines the difficulties in adopting and enforcing a UCC and navigates the administrative and political obstacles. By utilizing knowledge from worldwide case studies, it places foreign experiences in context and identifies lessons that may be applied to India.
This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the Uniform Civil Code, including insights into its effects on legal, cultural, and sociological aspects. The thorough examination and careful analysis offer a basis for academics, stakeholders, and policymakers to understand the potentials and challenges of a Uniform Civil Code.
A Study on the Impact of Psychosocial Factors on the Nature and Incidence of Suicide among Adolescent Students
Authors: - Deepa P , - Dr. Vidhya , - Dr. Ramaa Raju
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACT
Adolescence is a time for existential confrontations and at this stage, the adolescent is philosophical, and often thinks of death in more abstract terms. This research is a study on the impact of psychosocial factors on the nature and incidence of suicide among adolescent students. The study was conducted using The Students Stress Inventory, Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), The Learned Helplessness Scale and The Suicide Behaviour Questionnaire Revised (SBQ-R) on a group of 10 male and female adolescent students whose age ranged from 13 to 17 years. The mixed research design was adopted using quantitative and qualitative analysis. The research findings reveal that all subjects of the group had moderate levels of stress, anxiety and helplessness. The students who participated in the study demonstrated suicidal ideation and behaviour. The correlation between stress and anxiety with suicide risk behaviour was high for the group of students. It is found that there was a low correlation between feelings of helplessness and suicide risk behaviour. The reports of the students who participated in the study throws light on social, economic and academic pressures which create stress and could make them contemplate attempting suicide.
Review on Gardening Robot for Irrigation System
Authors: - Manas Upadhyay , - Abhishek Sharma , - Sakshi Pandey , - Devesh Pandey , - Umesh Chandra Gupta , - Aadya Verma , - Ashish Gupta
Published: January 2024

This paper describes the armature and perpetration of a distributed independent gardening system (gardening robots) with applications in civics/inner perfection husbandry. The garden is a mesh network of robots and plants. The gardening robots are mobile manipulators with an eye-in-hand camera. They are able of locating plants in the garden, saddening them (watering them), and locating and grasping fruit. The plants are enhanced with detectors and calculation to cover their well-being (soil moisture) and with the help of the network to communicate servicing requests to the robots. This paper explores the integration of robotics in gardening weeding ranging from automated Smart irrigation systems. It discusses the impact of artificial intelligence and sensor technologies on optimizing plant care. The review also addresses current limitations and suggests potential avenues for future research in the field of gardening robotics. This project aims to develop a robot that can perform an operation such as automatic irrigation and weeding. For manual control, the robot uses a Bluetooth pairing application as a control device and helps to navigate the robot outside the field.
Unveiling the Language of Expression: Decoding Verbal and Non-verbal Cues in English Literature
Authors: - Haifaa Mohammad , - Aaliya Ahmed
Published: January 2024

This qualitative content analysis decodes the complex interplay of verbal and non-verbal cues in Mohsin Hamid's Exit West. Focused on characters Saeed and Nadia, the study reveals nuanced power dynamics and challenges to traditional gendered communication norms. Examining instances of conformity and resistance to gendered communication ideals, the analysis sheds light on emotional intelligence and societal negotiation. The study not only enhances understanding of character dynamics but contributes to broader discussions in literary, cultural, and gender studies. Additionally, this research invites further exploration into the evolving nature of communication in contemporary literature.
Cross Sectional Study On The Dietary Habits And Lifestyle Practices Among University Students In Malaysia
Authors: - Kavii Varma , - Kogila Muthusamy , - Yeoh Chia Rou , - Ghana Kavinya , - Thein Win Naing
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Growing rates of young adults have fallen prey to poor eating habits leading to obesity and various health issues. The National Health and Morbidity Survey conducted in 2019 revealed 50.1% of Malaysia’s adult population to be within the weight range of overweight and obese. While a rising number of university students contributed to these numbers, it was also noted that the factors contributing to such findings were unhealthy eating habits and poor lifestyle choices.
Objective(s): This study assess the prevalence of overweight/obesity and explores the eating patterns and lifestyle practices among university students in Malaysia.
Methodologies: A cross-sectional study was conducted among university students in Malaysia. A total of 268 students participated in the study. Data was collected from December 2022 to June 2023. Self-administered questionnaire comprising of questions pertaining to living circumstances, current weight, height, information on dietary habits, lifestyle practices and knowledge of balanced nutrition. The collected data were used to correlate the student’s dietary habits with their lifestyle practices based on gender and BMI.
Results: The prevalence of overweight and obese students (53.378%) is higher than underweight and normal weight students consist of 55.245% of male students and 44.755% of female students. There is a significant association found between BMI, gender and assessment of dietary habits suggest that eating habits vary based on body weight and gender. Students with higher knowledge levels regarding food, lifestyle and nutrition tend to adopt better lifestyle practices. Conclusion: The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to promote healthier eating habits, lifestyle practices, and knowledge among university students. Strategies may include nutritional education programs, lifestyle workshops, and initiatives to enhance students' understanding of dieting, nutrition, and self-body image.
Representing Blackness
Authors: McFarlane Donna E.
Published: January 2024

Dr Donna E. McFarlane Curator and Director of the Marcus Mosiah Garvey Multimedia Museum (2003–2017) carefully reconstructs the history of Jamaica’s museums, and the world of new museum studies centered on Jamaica’s First National Hero life’s work and philosophy. The timelessness of Garvey and The Universal Negro Improvement (UNIA) is examined through exhibitions, library holdings, local community activities and 21st century museum technology housed in the historical and renovated Liberty Hall. Through the energetic and gifted abilities of Dr McFarlane, Representing Blackness provides the ideological framework as to why there is value of these kinds of programs in museum settings. Further, McFarlane is adamant that Garvey must be included in curriculum resources for all Jamaican schools. Garvey’s philosophy and opinions inspire, excite, and positively affect the self-identity of Jamaican people, while creating social and economic wealth. Representing Blackness rich in analysis and imagery shows Liberty Hall as the cultural and educational institution that is a living monument to Marcus Mosiah Garvey.
Rethinking Poverty
Authors: Bailey Corin , Barrow Christine , Lashley Jonathan
Published: January 2024

Researchers have been grappling with finding an adequate means of defining poverty since the nineteenth century, yet no universal consensus exists today. Much of the debate has been concerned with whether poverty should be defined in absolute or relative terms. Today, most countries use income as a measure of poverty, and the extent of poverty in a country is assessed on the basis of a poverty line, as is the case in Barbados. Human deprivation cannot be accurately portrayed purely by of a lack of financial resources; however, a variety of factors, including unemployment, violations of human rights, increased migration, weakening of family ties, and reduced social and political participation may combine to severely reduce the quality of living conditions for large sectors of Caribbean society. Corin Bailey, Jonathan Lashley and Christine Barrow propose the use of a more comprehensive measure of deprivation, one that takes into consideration the range of resources or assets necessary to maintain an acceptable standard of living. They argue that the absence of critical physical, human, social and environmental assets leaves individuals and groups vulnerable to social exclusion and they offer a framework that provides a unique contemporary approach to the study of poverty in the Caribbean. Rather than relying solely on statistical data, the authors use qualitative data in the form of testimony from the excluded to allow them to explain, in their own words, the realities of exclusion that they face and the manner in which the absence of the assets described leaves them vulnerable to deprivation. This use of mixed methodology includes a survey of living conditions as well as qualitative participatory poverty assessments designed to adequately capture the experience of exclusion in Barbados and an institutional assessment that seeks to determine what government and civil society organizations have done to reduce poverty. Rethinking Poverty is a refreshingly innovative analysis of poverty in the region.
Application of The Make A Match Model to Improve The Learning Outcomes of Class II Students in Elementary Schools
Authors: Mutia Qodra Laili , Hiltrimartin Cecil , Wati Destiana
Published: January 2024

Purpose of the study: This research aims to improve the learning outcomes of class II students through the Make a Match learning model at State Elementary School 07 Palembang. This type of research is classroom action research carried out over two cycles. The subjects of this research were 30 students. Methodology: The techniques used for data collection are tests, observation, and documentation. The data analysis technique used is qualitative and quantitative data analysis. The research results show that learning outcomes using the Make a Match type cooperative learning model have increased in Indonesian language subjects. Main Findings: This can be seen from before the action. The average student score was only 61.83, with a completion percentage of only 60%. In cycle I, the average student score was 68, 47, with a completion percentage reaching 73%. In cycle II, the average student score was 76.30, and the completion rate reached 83%. Novelty/Originality of this study: The latest research applies the make-a-match learning model to Indonesian language subjects. Thus, using the make-a-match type cooperative learning model can improve the learning outcomes of class 2 students in Indonesian language subjects.
Effect of Good Corporate Governance and Gender Diversity on Earnings Management in Indonesia
Authors: Yopie Santi , Chandrawati Meliesa
Published: January 2024

Purpose - The goal of this study is to ascertain the major impact of gender diversity and good corporate governance on earnings management.

Research Method - In this study, sampling was done using a purposive sampling technique.

Findings - The results of hypothesis testing show that the variables of independent commissioners have a negative effect on earnings management.

Implication - The research sample can be expanded by adding various sectors, adding independent variables that can better explain earnings management.
Kinerja Keberlanjutan dan Kinerja Keuangan Perusahaan: Efek Moderasi dari Tata Kelola Perusahaan
Authors: Anita Anita , Fatmasari Agustini
Published: January 2024

Purpose - This research intends to interpret corporate governance's effect on the relationship between sustainability performance and financial performance.

Research Method - The research method used is panel data regression. Research data is quantitative data obtained from the Indonesian Stock Exchange. The sample selection procedure used a purposive sampling method from 767 listed companies, and 53 met the criteria.

Findings - The research results prove that board size and CEO duality do not affect sustainability performance. The board independence and female directors significantly impact sustainability performance. Furthermore, researchers also found that corporate governance cannot moderate the relationship between sustainability and financial performance.

Implication - The research findings conclude that board independence and female directors can pay more attention to sustainability performance, which can be used as a reference in making corporate governance and sustainability policies.
The Effect of One-Sided Chewing Habits on the Occurrence of Caries, Calculus, and Oral Status Hygiene in Students of SMP Islam Terpadu Nurul Fadhilah, Percut Sei Tuan District, Deli Serdang Regency, Indonesia
Authors: Molek  , Suci Erawati  , Dina Fitriana
Published: January 2024

Worldwide, 45–97% of people chew food with only one side of their mouth. It is possible that chewing may act as a natural cleanser. One side of the mouth is more susceptible to the development of calculus and plaque when chewing, while the other side naturally removes debris and improves hygiene. Chewing behavior on one side causes a buildup of food detritus, resulting in low oral status. This study aims to explore the influence of one-sided chewing habits on the occurrence of caries, calculus, and oral status hygiene in Students of SMP Islam Terpadu Nurul Fadhilah Percut Sei Tuan District, Deli Serdang Regency, Indonesia. This study is an analytical observational research with a cross-sectional approach. This study uses primary data obtained from observations of the subject study. A total of 50 research subjects took part in this study. The incidence of caries, calculus, and oral hygiene status is influenced by one-sided chewing patterns. One-sided chewing patterns increase the caries index calculus index and reduce oral hygiene status.
الأمثال الشعبية ودورها في التنشئة الاجتماعية والتربية
Authors: رحيّم د. مستور حماد
Published: January 2024

تتناول هذه الد ا رسة موضوع الأمثال الشعبية، حيث إنَّها -في حياة الشعوب- نتا ج تجرب ة إنسانيةحضارية مت ا ركمة صاغها الإنسان؛ لتكون التجلي الثقافي للواقع الاجتماعي، ومعبرةً عن المشاعر والأحاسيستجاه تفاصيل الحياة اليومية بكل ما تحمله من مواقف... ومن الطبيعي أن تختلف اللهجات من بلد إلى آخر،وذلك تبعاً لاختلاف البيئات. وتتطرق الد ا رسة إلى تعريف الأمثال، وكيفية إنتاجها أو ظهورها، حيث إنَّ الأمثالأكثر أنواع الأدب الشعبي قدرة على حفظ أفكار أف ا رد المجتمع وسلوكهم وحملها وترجمتها، وحفظ عاداتهموتقاليدهم وأع ا رفهم ومعتقداتهم الاجتماعية، فهي وعا ء يحوي ثقافة المجتمع الذي أنتجها، وحافظ عليها بالتداولوالتناقل عبر الأجيال. وتهدف الد ا رسة إلى تسليط الضوء على دور الأمثال في التنشئة الاجتماعية والتربية،وهي د ا رسة نظرية نقدية وصفية في إطار علم الاجتماع الثقافي، وربما النقدي الإنثروبولوجي، وقد است خدِمتحليل المحتوى من الناحية الكيفية كأحد أساليب منهج البحث الوصفي.
التفاوت بين الريف والحضر في مستوى خدمات التعليم الأساسي ببلدية شحات
Authors: عبد النبي الدكتور: أحمد عبد السلام
Published: January 2024

تهدف هذه الد ا رسة إلى تحليل التفاوت بين الريف والحضر في مستوى خدمات التعليم الأساسي العام) ببلدية شحات، وذلك بالاعتماد على البيانات الرسمية لإجمالي المدارس الأساسية بالبلدية، البالغ عددها ) 73مدرسة، منها ) 81 ( في الريف، و) 81 ( تقع في الحضر. ومن خلال استعمال تحليل التباين الأحادي توصلتالد ا رسة إلى وجود تفاوت جوهري بين المدارس الريفية والمدارس الحضرية في مستوى خدمات التعليم الأساسي
المساندة الاجتماعية وبعض المتغيرات الديمغرافية كمنبئات بالصلابة النفسية.
Authors: المغربي أ. خديجة محمد عبدالمالك
Published: January 2024

تهدف الد ا رسة إلى التعرف على مستوى المساندة الاجتماعية وأبعادها، والصلابة النفسية وأبعادها، اولتعرفعلى الفروق في المساندة الاجتماعية وأبعادها، والصلابة النفسية وأبعادها، تبعاً لمتغي ا رت الن وع )ذكور/إناث(،والتخصص )أدبي/علمي(، اولتعرف على ما إذا كان للمساندة الاجتماعية أو أحد أبعادها دور منبئ بالصلابةالنفسية.،) اس ت خ د م مقيا س للمساندة الاجتماعية إ عداد سيد ) 1122 (، ومقياس للصلابة النفسية إ عداد مخيمر ) 1111وتكونت عينة الد ا رسة من ) 221 ( طال با وطالبةً من جامعة بنغازي ، ومن أهم النتائج التي توصلت إليها الد ا رسةأنه لا توجد فروق ذات دلالة إحصائية عائدة للنوع والتخصص في المساندة الاجتماعية والصلابة النفسيةوأبعادهما، كما توصلت الد ا رسة الحالية إلى أ ن للمساندة الاجتماعية دو ا ر منب ئا بالصلابة النفسية، وأ ن لبعدالشعور بالرضا الذاتي عن المساندة الاجتماعية بالتفاعل مع الدرجة الكلية للمساندة دو ا ر منب ئا بالصلابة النفسية،وأ نه لا يوجد تأثير منبئ للنوع والتخصص في الصلابة النفسية.
تاريخ الكشف الأثري لمواقع أثار ما قبل التاريخ في منطقتي الجبل الأخضر وسهل بنغازي (إقليم سيرينايكا)
Authors: بوحجر د.سعد
Published: January 2024

تتناول هذه الورقة البحثية موضوع قديم حديث، يبدأ تاريخه منذ عشرينيات القرن الماضي حتى وقتنا الحاضر، فمن العنوان يتضح أن البحث يقتصر على سرد المعلومات حول بدايات الكشف الأثري في إقليم سيرينايكا (20-1921م _ 2022م) وما واجهت أصحاب هذه الإكتشافات من مصاعب دون التطرق للمواقع بشيء من التفصيل، ويصطحب المادة العلمية تمهيد يتضمن تعريفات مهمة تسهل على القاريء فهم المقالة منها تعريف الموقع الأثري في فترة ماقبل التاريخ وشواهده وأشهر أنواعه في منطقة الدراسة، وكذلك مفهوم مصطلح ماقبل التاريخ (Prehistory) وجغرافية المنطقة التي احتوت هذه المواقع مروراً بنشأة دراسات ماقبل التاريخ في ليبيا.  ان تاريخ الكشف عنوان البحث الذي يتم سرده حسب الطبيعة الجغرافية للمواقع الأثرية مابين مواقع مكشوفة ومغلقة (العراء- الكهوف) وكذلك وفق الشواهد الأثرية منقولة وثابتة. أما الخاتمة فتحتوي النتائج والتوصيات وقائمة المصادر والمراجع.
انعكاسات الانقسام على منظومة القيم في المجتمع الفلسطيني: دراسة ميدانية
Authors: قاسم د.مروان عدنان , أبو عودة د.ختام خليل
Published: January 2024

تهدف الدراسة الى الكشف عن مدى انعكاس الانقسام على منظومة القيم (الاجتماعية، السياسية، الاقتصادية) الفلسطينية، وتحديد الفروق ذات الدلالة الإحصائية في متوسطات استجابات أفراد عينة الدراسة حول مدى انعكاس الانقسام على منظومة القيم (الاجتماعية، السياسية، الاقتصادية)  الفلسطينية يعزى لمتغيرات (الجنس، المؤهل العلمي، الفئات العمرية، الانتماء السياسي)، واتبعت الدراسة المنهج الوصفي التحليلي، حيث تكونت عينة الدراسة من (500) مفردة، وكانت الاستبانة هي أداة الدراسة، حيث توصلت الدراسة الى مجموعة من نتائج من أهمها: انعكاس  الانقسام الفلسطيني على منظومة القيم ( الاجتماعية، السياسية، الاقتصادية)  الفلسطينية كبير جدا من وجهة نظر فئات المجتمع الفلسطيني كافة، حيث جاءت نسبة استجابات أفراد العينة كبيرة جدا ومتوسط حسابي (85.4)، عدم وجود فروق في استجابات أفراد عينة الدراسة حول انعكاس الانقسام على منظومة القيم الاقتصادية يعزى لمتغيرات الدراسة، هناك فرق بين آراء أفراد عينة الدراسة حول انعكاس الانقسام وتحديات المصالحة على منظومة القيم  الاجتماعية والقيم السياسية والاستبانة ككل باختلاف الجنس لصالح  الذكور.
Power Quality Acquire of Intelligent Controller based Superior Gain Re-Lift Luo Converter Intended for PV Linked Microgrid Integration
Authors: Rajendran E. , Raji V. , Prabu V. K. Dinesh
Published: January 2024

Power converters-based renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic (PV) and wind energy are more popular for residential and commercial applications. Because, of their eco friendlessness and cost effective operation. A Re-Lift Luo Converter integrated with renewable sources to the utility microgrid along with Intelligent Controller strategies is proposed. The solar photovoltaic system provides voltage to the inverter through a Re-lift Luo converter. The Bidirectional Battery converter along with battery system is used to achieve energy control management for the proposed system. In this paper the grid synchronization with DSTATCOM devices controlled by PI controller with D-Q theory transformation is achieved. Under this work, DSTATCOM has been used to improve the power quality under different loading conditions. The LC filter is employed to develop the output of the inverter. The input of the PV and battery systems are DC bus power source, as well as AC power injected into the grid network. The obtained results indicate that proposed approach delivers better performance with superior efficiency and nominal harmonics. The entire proposed system is validated through a MATLAB simulation and Hardware experimental prototype.
Improved Public Lighting at the University of São Paulo - Brazil
Authors: Melero José Carlos Martinez , Santos Emerson Roberto , Junior Elvo Calixto Burini , Tatizawa Hédio
Published: January 2024

The University of São Paulo (USP) transitioned the roadway lighting technology at the University called Armando de Salles Oliveira (USP-CUASO campus) from High-Pressure Sodium Vapor Lamps (HPSVL) and Metal Halide Lamps (MHL) to the Solid-State Lighting (SSL). So, this paper presents and discusses the outcomes of the lighting installations and the depreciation of light output from luminaires installed at the Institute of Energy and Environment (IEE) at USP using field data collected over two years (2018–2023). The analysis incorporates aspects related to corrective maintenance, predominantly performed last year, necessitated by the end of the useful life of components such as electronic drivers (66%), 50 W LEDi modules (17%) and others (17%). The failure rate of the sampled luminaires in the IEE area increased from 10% to 28% between August 2021 and January 2023.
Reagent of Complex Action for Oil Transportation
Authors: Abdulaga Gurbanov , İjabika Sardarova , Almaz Mehdiyeva
Published: January 2024

Traditional methods of pipeline cleaning: scraping and heating of problem areas are quite timeconsuming and costly. Cost optimization in this area should be associated with the introduction of new high-tech technologies, as well as the use of effective domestic analogues of materials and components. Recently, the use of chemical reagents has become a method of influencing the rheological properties of the oil stream. It was found that solutions of the additive in toluene have optimal low temperature properties, which is obviously determined by its pour point (-95°C). The study of rheological properties was carried out at a low shear rate of 3.75 s-1, which corresponds to the starting loads on pumps of the oil pumping station, as well as in the range of shear rates at temperatures typical for gathering, infield and main oil transportation processes. Innovative methods for dealing with complications in oil transportation. Proposed by a number of developers, they are based on electromagnetic and ultrasonic treatment of the oil flow by stationary devices. Studies of dynamic viscosity during cooling in the temperature range from 70°C to minus 10°C made it possible to determine the depression of the saturation temperature of oil with paraffins in the presence of the developed reagent, which was 6°C, which reduces the cost of heating the oil-gathering header and infield pipeline when transporting oil in winter. At a low speed in the studied temperature range, the viscosity decreases by an average of 35%, which significantly reduces the starting loads on the pumps. This reagent may vary depending on the application conditions and reach 50% by weight. while maintaining the possibility of up to -30°C without preheating. The results show that the developed reagent effectively inhibits the formation of ASF in oils at economically reasonable concentrations of 100...200 g/m3 and is not inferior in efficiency to modern domestic and foreign analogues. On average, the intensity of the cleaning of pipes from the formed deposits will be reduced by 2.5 times.
Ultrasonographic diagnosis of urinary calculus caused by melamine in children
Authors: JIA Li-qun , SHEN Ying , WANG Xiao-man , HE Le-jian , XIN Yue , HU Yan-xiu
Published: January 2024

Background

Intake of melamine can cause renal and ureteral lithiasis in infants and children. The present study aimed to understand the value of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of renal and ureteral lithiasis in infants and young children caused by melamine, and the characteristics of ultrasonograms of melamine-associated calculi.

Methods

Ultrasonographic examination on the urinary system was performed for 28 332 children who ingested milk powder that was possibly tainted with melamine; 395 of the children were diagnosed by ultrasonography as having urinary calculus, and 231 cases had lump-like calculi and 164 cases had sand gravel-like calculi. The features of the calculi, the sites of obstruction and the status of hydronephrosis and hydroureterosis were analyzed. Ultrasonographic reexamination was performed for 116 patients and the findings were compared with those of the first ultrasonography, and the short-term expulsion of the calculi was evaluated.

Results

Most of the 395 patients with urinary lithiasis, except for those who developed renal failure, had no symptoms. The whole profile of the calculi could be seen in most of the cases, because the echogenicity of the calculi with no sharp or absent acoustical shadowing, was weaker as compared with those from calcium-containing calculi. Comet tail sign could be seen behind the echogenicity of single gravel calculus. The rate of diagnostic consistency of ureteral lithiasis between the ultrasound and the results of clinical observation (including stones expelled spontaneously or after cystoscopic intervention) in 51 cases for 76 ureters was 100%. Percutaneous renal biopsy was performed for one case, and histopathological examination showed flocculent, fine strip-like, ellipse and circular deeply stained sand gravel-like material in the renal tubules, and the circular calculi were found to be attached to the walls of the tubules. Chemical analysis of the calculi expelled from 12 cases showed that the main contents of the calculi were uric acid and melamine. Short-term ultrasound reexamination in 116 patients showed that gravel-like calculi disappeared in 80.4% of the cases; in 26 non-hospitalized cases who had lump-like calculi without hydronephrosis or hydroureterosis, none of the lump-like calculi were expelled.

Conclusions

The ultrasonograpic findings of urinary calculi in children caused by ingestion of melamine-tainted milk powder have a certain features as compared to the calculi containing calcium. Careful ultrasound examination can avoid missed diagnoses of ureteral calculi. Most of the gravel-like calculi can be expelled within a short period of term, while lump-like calculi can hardly be expelled. Ultrasonography is an accurate and reliable method of diagnosis of urinary calculus caused by melamine intake in children and it can be used as diagnostic method of choice although abdominal X-ray plain film can also visualize some of larger calculi.
Evaluation of live attenuated S79 mumps vaccine effectiveness in mumps outbreaks: a matched case-control study
Authors: FU Chuan-xi , NIE Jun , LIANG Jian-hua , WANG Ming
Published: January 2024

Background

Mumps virus infection is a potentially serious viral infection of childhood and early adulthood. In China, live attenuated S79 mumps vaccine has been licensed for pediatric use since 1990. The objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of live attenuated S79 mumps vaccine against clinical mumps in outbreaks.

Methods

Cases were selected from mumps outbreaks in schools in Guangzhou between 2004 and 2005. Each case was matched by gender, age and classroom. Vaccination information was obtained from Children's EPI Administrative Computerized System. Vaccine effectiveness (VE) was calculated for 1 or 2 doses of S79 vaccine with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

One hundred and ninety-four cases and 194 controls were enrolled into the study. VE of the S79 mumps vaccine for 1 dose versus 0 confer protection 80.4% (95% CI, 60.0%-90.4%) and VEs against mumps in outbreaks for 1 dose of mumps vaccine are similar among those children aged 4–9 years and aged over 10 years old.

Conclusion

The live attenuated S79 mumps vaccine can be effective in preventing clinical mumps outbreaks.
Electromyographic monitoring of facial nerve under different levels of neuromuscular blockade during middle ear microsurgery
Authors: CAI Yi-rong , XU Jing , CHEN Lian-hua , CHI Fang-lu
Published: January 2024

Background

The evoked electromyography (EMG) is frequently used to identify facial nerve in order to prevent its damage during surgeries. Partial neuromuscular blockade (NMB) has been suggested to favor EMG activity and insure patients’ safety. The aim of this study was to determine an adequate level of NMB correspondent to sensible facial nerve identification by evaluating the relationship between facial EMG responses and peripheral NMB levels during the middle ear surgeries.

Methods

Facial nerve evoked EMG and NMB monitoring were performed simultaneously in 40 patients who underwent tympanoplasty. Facial electromyographic responses were recorded by insertion of needle electrodes into the orbicularis oris and orbicularis oculi muscles after electrical stimulation on facial nerve. The NMB was observed objectively with the hypothenar muscle's twitching after electrical stimulation of ulnar nerve, and the intensity of blockade was adjusted at levels of 0, 25%, 50%, 75%, 90%, and 100% respectively with increased intravenous infusion of Rocuronium (muscle relaxant).

Results

All of the patients had detectable EMG responses at the levels of NMB ≤50%. Four out of forty patients had no EMG response at the levels of NMB ≥75%. A significant linear positive correlation was present between stimulation thresholds and NMB levels while a linear negative correlation was present between EMG amplitudes and NMB levels.

Conclusions

The facial nerve monitoring via facial electromyographic responses can be obtained when an intraoperative partial neuromuscular blockade is induced to provide an adequate immobilization of the patient. The 50% NMB should be considered as the choice of anesthetic management for facial nerve monitoring in otologic microsurgery based on the relationship of correlation.
Clinical assessment of awake endotracheal intubation using the lightwand technique alone in patients with difficult airways
Authors: XUE Fu-shan , HE Nong , LIAO Xu , XU Xiu-Zheng , XU Ya-chao , YANG Quan-yong , LUO Mao-ping , ZHANG Yan-ming
Published: January 2024

Background

There is few study to determine whether the use of the lightwand technique alone could achieve effective, safe and successful awake endotracheal intubation (ETI), therefore we designed a prospective clinical study to systematically evaluate the feasibility, safety and efficacy of awake ETI using the lightwand alone in patients with difficult airways.

Methods

Seventy adult patients with difficult airways were enrolled in this study. After the desired sedation with fentanyl and midazolam, airway topical anesthesia was performed with 9 ml of 2% lidocaine, which were in order sprayed in three aliquots at 5 minutes intervals into the supraglottic (two doses) and laryngotracheal areas (one dose) using a combined unit of the lightwand and MADgic® atomizer. After airway topical anesthesia, awake ETI was performed using a Lightwand. Subjective assessments by patients and operators using the visual analogue scores (VAS), and objective assessments by an independent investigator using patients' tolerance and reaction scores, coughing severity, intubating conditions and cardiovascular variables were taken as the observed parameters.

Results

Of 210 airway sprays, 197 (93.8%) were successfully completed on the first attempt. The total time for airway spray was (14.6±1.5) minutes. During airway topical anesthesia, the average patients' tolerance scores were 1.7–2.3. After airway topical anesthesia, the mean VAS for discomfort levels that the patients reported was 6.5. Also airway topical anesthesia procedure was rated as acceptable and no discomfort by 94.3% of patients. The lightwand-guided awake ETI was successfully completed on first attempt within 29 seconds in all patients. During awake ETI, patients' reaction and coughing scores were 1.9 and 1.6, respectively. All patients exhibited excellent or acceptable intubating conditions. Cardiovascular monitoring revealed that changes of systolic blood pressure and heart rate at each stage of airway manipulations were less than 20% of baseline values. The postoperative follow-up showed that 95.7% of patients had no recall or slight memories of all airway instrumentation. The incidence of postoperative mild airway complications was 38.6%.

Conclusion

Alone use of the lightwand technique can achieve effective, safe and successful awake ETI in patients with difficult airways.
Protein A immunoadsorption combined with rituximab in highly sensitized kidney transplant recipients
Authors: YIN Hang , HU Xiao-peng , LI Xiao-bei , LIU Hang , WANG Wei , REN Liang , WANG Yong , ZHANG Xiao-dong
Published: January 2024

Background

The number of highly sensitized patients is rising, and sensitization can lead to renal transplant failure. The present study aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of protein A immunoadsorption combined with rituximab (RTX) in highly sensitized recipients of kidney transplants.

Methods

Seven highly sensitized recipients of living-related renal transplants (4 men and 3 women, mean aged 42.5 years old (range 33-51)) were pretreated with this combination. Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) mismatch number was 2-5. Panel reactive antibody (PRA) of class I was high in 2 cases and that of class II was high in 1 case. All patients were pretreated with immunoadsorption 2-10 times. Immunoglobulin and PRA changes were monitored before and after absorption. The operation was conducted when PRA or immunoglobulin levels were at or below normal levels. Immunosuppressive drugs were provided 3-5 days before the operation, and one dose of RTX (375 mg/m2) was infused with polyclonal antibody on the day of operation. Postoperative creatinine (Cr), creatinine clearance rate (Ccr), PRA ratio, and immunoglobulin changes were monitored.

Results

All 7 patients had good recovery without delayed graft function. Acute rejection occurred in 3 cases at postoperative days 8, 10, and 14, respectively. The Banff 07 biopsy grades were Ia in 1 case and IIa C4d0 in 2 cases. Successful reversion was achieved after giving methylprednisolone or antithymocyte immunoglobulin + cyclophosphamide. All patients were discharged with normal renal function, mean class I PRA was 14% and mean class II PRA was 35%. PRA was completely negative in 3 cases.

Conclusion

Protein A immunoadsorption combined with RTX can safely reduce the occurrence of humoral rejection in highly sensitized renal transplant recipients.
Update on treatments of diabetic macular edema
Authors: YANG Xiao-lu , LIU Kun , XU Xun
Published: January 2024

Objective

To review the update research progress about the treatment of diabetic macular edema and to give helpful guidelines in the treatment of diabetic macular edema based on available evidence to date.

Data sources

A literature search of all English articles was performed on the online electronic PubMed database dated 1984 to 2009. The keywords searched included: macular edema, therapy, laser coagulation, intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide, vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitor, protein kinase C inhibitor and Pars plana vitrectomy. After finding relevant articles within these search limits, a manual search was conducted through the references from these articles.

Study selection

Original articles and critical reviews were reviewed and selected to address the stated purpose.

Results

To date, demonstrated means to reduce the risk of vision loss from diabetic macular edema include focal/grid laser photocoagulation and improved metabolic control. Emerging pharmacologic therapies (intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide, vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors and protein kinase C beta-isoform inhibitors) and Pars plana vitrectomy have shown early promise in the treatment of diabetic macular edema.

Conclusions

As there has been extensive development in multiple treatments of diabetic macular edema, choice of the most suitable treatment for specific patients becomes important. Combination therapy of laser, pharmacological and surgical treatment modalities may offer an alternative to treatment of diabetic macular edema.
Changes in biochemical parameters on the first day after kidney transplantation: risk factors for nosocomial infection?
Authors: YANG Yi , REN Liang , ZHANG Yong , LIU Hang , CAO Bin , ZHANG Xiao-dong
Published: January 2024

Background

Nosocomial infection in early post-transplantation period is a tough problem for kidney transplantation. Few reports have explored the relations between biochemical parameters and nosocomial infection in kidney transplantation. This retrospective study was carried out to describe the characteristics of nosocomial infection in the very early period of kidney transplantation and to determine the risk factors in biochemical parameters and their alterations. Methods Patients who underwent their first kidney transplantation from January 2001 to March 2009 in Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital were recruited and the nosocomial infectious episodes were collected for this study. Gender, age, donor type, delayed graft function (DGF) and biochemical parameters such as serum uric acid, lipids files and albumin on day 0 (before transplantation) and day 1 (24 hours after transplantation) and their changes were analyzed with Logistic regression models for nosocomial infection.

Results

A total of 405 patients (315 men and 90 women) were involved in this study. There were 80 patients experiencing 113 infection episodes and 105 strains of microorganism were indentified. In univariate analysis, there were significant differences in DGF, albumin on day 0, lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)) on day 1, change in low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C, day 1-day 0) and change in uric acid (day 1-day 0) between nosocomial infection patients and noninfectious patients (P <0.05). In multivariate analysis, change in uric acid (day 1-day 0) (OR 5.139, 95% CI 1.176-22.465, P <0.05), change in LDL-C (day 1-day 0) (OR 4.179, 95% CI 1.375-12.703, P <0.05) and DGF (OR 14.409, 95% CI1.603-129.522, P <0.05) were identified as independent risk factors for nosocomial infection in kidney transplantation.

Conclusions

Most nosocomial infections in early postoperative period of kidney transplantation are bacterial, especially with Gram-negative bacteria. The most common infection sites are respiratory tract, urinary tract and surgical site. DGF, decrease of LDL-C and increase of uric acid could increase the risk for nosocomial infections.
Increased hsp70 of glucocorticoid receptor complex induced by scald and heat stress and its possible effect on the affinity of glucocorticoid receptor
Authors: WANG Xiao-hui , TANG Hong-tai , LU Jian , XIA Zhao-fan
Published: January 2024

Background

Glucocorticoid (GC) insensitivity/GC resistance is an important etiological and prognostic factor in multiple diseases and pathophysiological processes such as scald, shock and asthma. The function of GC was mediated by glucocorticoid receptor (GR). Scald not only decreased the expression of GR but also reduced the affinity of GR, which played an important role in GC resistance in scalded rats. Whereas the molecular mechanism responsible for the decrease of GR affinity resulted from scald remains unclear. Recent studies showed that the changes of heat shock proteins (hsp) especially hsp90 and hsp70 of GR heterocomplex were associated with GR low affinity in vitro.

Methods

The affinity of GR in hepatic cytosols and in the cytosols of SMMC-7721 cells were determined by radioligand binding assay and scatchard plot. GR heterocomplex in cytosols were captured by coimmunoprecipation and the levels of hsp90 and hsp70 of GR complex were detected by quantitative Western blotting.

Results

Similar with that of hepatic cytosol of scalded rats, a remarkable decrease of GR affinity was also found in the cytosol of heat stressed SMMC-7721 cells. The level of hsp70 of GR complex in hepatic cytosol of scalded rats (30% total body surface area immersion scald) and in cytosol of heat stressed human hepatocarcinoma cell line SMMC-7721 were both increased by 1.5 fold, whereas no change of hsp90 in GR heterocomplex was found. According to the correlation analysis, there may be a positive relationship between increased hsp70 of GR complex and decreased GR affinity in the cytosols.

Conclusions

The primary results indicated that the level of hsp70 of GR heterocomplex was increased in the hepatic cytosol of scalded rats and the cytosol of heat stressed SMMC-7721 cells. The increase of hsp70 of GR complex might be associated with the decrease of GR affinity.

Chin Med J 2010;123(13):1780–1785
Diagnostic efficiency and complication rate of CT-guided lung biopsy: a single center experience of the procedures conducted over a 10-year period
Authors: YUAN Dong-mei , LÜ Yan-ling , YAO Yan-wen , LIU Hong-bing , WANG Qian , XIAO Xin-wu , CAO E-hong , SHI Yi , ZHOU Xiao-jun , SONG Yong
Published: January 2024

Background

Computed tomography (CT)-guided transthoracic lung biopsy is a well-established technique for the diagnosis of pulmonary lesions. The objective of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic efficiency and complication rate of CT-guided lung biopsy in a Chinese population.

Methods

CT-guided cutting needle lung biopsies were performed in our institution on 1014 patients between January 2000 and October 2010. A chest radiograph was taken after the biopsy. Data about basic patient information, final diagnosis, and complications secondary to biopsy procedure (pneumothorax and bleeding) were extracted.

Results

The diagnostic efficiency of CT-guided lung biopsy was 94.8%; only 53 patients did not get a final diagnosis from lung biopsy. Final diagnoses found 639 malignant lesions (63.0%) and 322 benign lesions (31.8%). Pneumothorax occurred in 131 patients and 15 required insertion of an intercostal drain. Small hemoptysis occurred in 41 patients and mild parenchymal hemorrhage occurred in 16 patients. The overall complication rate was 18.5%.

Conclusions

CT-guided cutting needle biopsy of pulmonary lesions is a relatively safe technique with a high diagnostic accuracy. It can be safely performed in clinical trials.
Up-regulation of Ras/Raf/ERK1/2 signaling in the spinal cord impairs neural cell migration, neurogenesis, synapse formation, and dendritic spine development
Authors: CAO Fu-jiang , ZHANG Xu , LIU Tao , LI Xia-wen , Malik Mazar , FENG Shi-qing
Published: January 2024

Background

The Ras/Raf/ERK1/2 signaling pathway controls many cellular responses such as cell proliferation, migration, differentiation, and death. In the nervous system, emerging evidence also points to a death-promoting role for ERK1/2 in both in vitro and in vivo models of neuronal death. To further investigate how Ras/Raf/ERK1/2 up-regulation may lead to the development of spinal cord injury, we developed a cellular model of Raf/ERK up-regulation by overexpressing c-Raf in cultured spinal cord neurons (SCNs) and dorsal root ganglions (DRGs).

Methods

DRGs and SCNs were prepared from C57BL/6J mouse pups. DRGs or SCNs were infected with Ad-Raf-1 or Ad-Null adenovirus alone. Cell adhesion assay and cell migration assay were investigated, DiI labeling was employed to examine the effect of the up-regulation of Ras/Raf/ERK1/2 signaling on the dendritic formation of spinal neurons. We used the TO-PRO-3 staining to examine the apoptotic effect of c-Raf on DRGs or SCNs. The effect on the synapse formation of neurons was measured by using immunofluorescence.

Results

We found that Raf/ERK up-regulation stimulates the migration of both SCNs and DRGs, and impairs the formation of excitatory synapses in SCNs. In addition, we found that Raf/ERK up-regulation inhibits the development of mature dendritic spines in SCNs. Investigating the possible mechanisms through which Raf/ERK up-regulation affects the excitatory synapse formation and dendritic spine development, we discovered that Raf/ERK up-regulation suppresses the development and maturation of SCNs.

Conclusion

The up-regulation of the Raf/ERK signaling pathway may contribute to the pathogenesis of spinal cord injury through both its impairment of the SCN development and causing neural circuit imbalances.
Single incision laparoscopic right hemicolectomy: different approaches
Authors: WONG Tak-man , DAY Weida , KWOK Shu-yan , LAU Ying-yu Patrick , YIP Wai-chun Andrew
Published: January 2024

Background

Single incision laparoscopic colectomy has been performed in recent years, and has been shown to be feasible and safe. This study was to assess the feasibility of single incision laparoscopic right hemicolectomy and to compare the differences in different approaches.

Methods

This retrospective study included eighteen patients with carcinoma of caecum and ascending colon, undergoing single incision laparoscopic right hemicolectomy. This study also compared single incision laparoscopic right hemicolectomy using different approaches: (1) single incision multiport, (2) single access port and (3) glove port.

Results

There was no statistical difference in surgical outcomes. Concerning the surgeon's satisfaction toward three methods, overcrowding and durability were similar but the single incision multiport was associated with the highest gas-leak and the “glove” port was associated with poor durability. However, the method of single incision multiport has the lowest average cost of the special trocar or port in each operation. The operative time and blood loss of the operations in this study were comparable to previous publications.

Conclusion

There was no significant difference between different approaches of single incision laparoscopic right hemicolectomy for colonic cancer in right side colon.