bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Inappropriate Dose Adjustment of Antimicrobials and Other Medicines Among Chronic Kidney Disease Patients: A Multicenter Observational Study
Authors: Zafar Roheena , Ur Rehman Inayat , Shah Yasar , Goh Khang Wen , Ming Long Chiau
Published: November 2023

Most drugs undergo metabolism and elimination primarily by the kidneys. Consequently, drug dosages are largely contingent upon kidney function and require careful adjustment in patients with compromised renal function. Inaccurate dosage adjustments can lead to toxicities, therapeutic failures, and adverse drug reactions. This study sought to assess the appropriateness of dose adjustments for antimicrobials and other medicines among patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) attending both a public and a private hospital. A multicenter, retrospective observational study was carried out from January 1st to February 28th, 2023, among hospitalized CKD patients in two distinct facilities: Northwest General Hospital & Research Centre (a private institution) and the Institute of Kidney Diseases, Peshawar, Pakistan (a public institution). The goal was to compare adherence to dosing guidelines and to identify factors contributing to incorrect renal dose adjustments for antimicrobials and other medications. The study incorporated 358 CKD patients, with 179 patients from each hospital. Medications necessitating dosage adjustments were more frequently prescribed in the private hospital (n=515) compared to the public one (n=368). Nonetheless, dosages were more accurately adjusted in the private hospital (52.6%) than in the public hospital (40.5%). Of all the prescribed medications, 71.1% of antimicrobials in both hospitals were inaccurately adjusted. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the number of drugs requiring adjustment (AOR=0.6; p=0.001) was independently correlated with inappropriate drug adjustments in the private hospital. Conversely, in the public hospital, both the number of drugs requiring adjustment (AOR=0.6; p=0.019) and the length of hospital stay (AOR=0.8; p=0.048) were independently linked with inappropriate drug adjustments. The research revealed that a significant number of hospitalized CKD patients receive inappropriate drug dosages, especially in public hospitals. This predisposes these patients to heightened risks, including therapeutic failure.
Efficacy and safety of CDP-choline, cerebrolysin, MLC601, and edaravone in recovery of patients with acute ischemic strokes: a meta-analysis
Authors: Abou Zaki Shafiq Dexter B. , Lokin Johnny K.
Published: November 2023

Aim:
Stroke is the second most common cause of mortality and disability worldwide with ischemic strokes being the predominant type. The advent of neuroprotectants brought hope of improved outcomes and quality of life, but current guidelines, despite numerous trials, have no strong recommendation advising their use. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the degree of effect and safety of the neuroprotectants cytidine-5’-diphosphocholine (CDP-choline), cerebrolysin, edaravone, and MLC601, in the recovery of patients with cerebral infarcts.
Methods:
An extensive literature search, through the databases of PubMed, PMC, Cochrane, and Ovid, was done with the keywords “CDP-choline”, “cerebrolysin”, “MLC601”, and “edaravone” each combined with the term “acute ischemic stroke”. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials of these neuroprotectants administered to patients with acute ischemic strokes. A total of 2,025 studies were found, and after the application of screening criteria, 24 studies were eligible for analysis.
Results:
The analysis showed that the functional outcome of patients with acute ischemic strokes improved significantly when receiving neuroprotectants versus placebo supported by an odds ratio = 0.29 (0.09–0.50) with a confidence interval of 95%. The P-values are 0.0022 for the one-tailed test, and 0.0030 for the two-tailed test which express the significant improvement of functional outcomes in patients with acute ischemic strokes taking neuroprotectants.
Conclusions:
This study thus supports the use of neuroprotectants in patients with acute ischemic strokes to improve long-term functional outcomes and ultimately quality of life.
An Approach Towards Automate Models Construction and Research of Wireless Local Area Networks based on State Transition Diagram
Authors: Obelovska Kvitoslava , Pelekh Khrystyna , Pelekh Yuriy , Benova Eleonora , Liskevych Rostyslav
Published: November 2023

Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs) are widely used and their number is constantly increasing. Therefore, the creation of models for their detailed study, and even more, so the automation of this process is an urgent task. As an example of the research object, we chose the Media Access Control (MAC) sublayer and the Carrier Multiple Access with Collision Avoidance (CSMA/CA) access scheme. A simplified version of the state transition diagram was suggested by us, and an analytical model based on a system of differential equations was developed. Automation of the process of creating such models is realized by a software solution developed to automate the construction of analytical models of any objects described by a state transition diagram. The program automatically constructs and solves a system of differential equations using the substitution method, as well as constructs state diagrams.
Effects of Peer Mentorship on Academic Performance Among Bachelor of Science Nursing Students in Kenyan Universities
Authors: Anne A. Okanga  , Damaris A. Ochanda  , John M. Okoth
Published: November 2023

ABSTRACTBackground: Peer mentoring is one of the most effective interventions that have demonstrated ability to ease university transition and promote positive outcomes including better student performance. The study sought to examine the effects of peer mentorship on nursing students’ academic performance in Kenya.Methods: The study was a pretest-posttest quasi-experimental design using quantitative means of data collection. It was conducted in 4 sampled Kenyan universities offering Bachelor of Science in Nursing that included University of East Africa Baraton, Uzima, Great Lakes University of Kisumu and Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology. 50 third year students were trained and mentored 301 second years in 3 universities .1 university having 85 second year students served as a control group. Data was analysed using Statistical Package for the Social sciences version 28. Descriptive statistics were used to understand student distribution in universities. Paired-samples t-test and independent t test were used to establish relationship within and between groups.Results: Clinical scores of experimental group compared control group indicated t=-7.5041, P≤ .05 thus implying that the means of the two groups were significantly different. Results of classroom scores between the experimental and control groups were t=14.8713, P≤.05, indicating statistical difference in the means. The pre and post results in clinical and class scores of experimental group indicated significant results with t=27.72, P=≤ .05 and with t=18.01, P=≤ .05 respectively. On the other hand, Pre and post results of clinical control and clinical experimental results indicated insignificant results of t=-0.60, P≥ .05 and t=0.96, P≥ .05 respectively.Conclusion: The study concluded that peer mentorship affects positively student academic performance and recommends use of peer mentorship to support students and inform policy.
Nursing Students’ Perception of the Effectiveness of the Health Care Simulation at the University of Tabuk
Authors: Jay Nantin Ablao  , Waleed Alyami  , Hamza Alarki  , Waleed Alzahrani  , Mohammed Alshareff  , Fawaz Alemrani  , Hassan Alaysuy  , Fahad Alatawi
Published: November 2023

Background: Simulation has been recognized as a teaching strategy in nursing curriculum that efficiently fosters learning, competence acquisition, self-assurance, and safety of students. Simulation-based learning (SBL) has emerged as a valuable tool in nursing education, enabling students to attain the necessary clinical competencies essential for their future success.Objective: This study aims to evaluate the nursing students’ perception of the effectiveness of the healthcare simulation sessions at the University of Tabuk.Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional design was used with 128 nursing students who responded to the online survey using the Modified Simulation Effectiveness Tool (SET-M).Results: This study showed that almost all respondents strongly agreed on the effectivity of the healthcare simulation in the pre-briefing phase (81.65%), scenario phase (68%), and debriefing phase (74.38 %). There were no significant differences between students’ responses on the effectiveness of healthcare simulation sessions across all phases between gender, age, and academic level. However, the GPA has a significant difference in pre-briefing (P= .002) and scenario with a (P=.001) except for the debriefing with a (P=.352) which (P= >.05).Conclusion: The results of the study revealed that the healthcare simulation sessions held during the Academic Year 2022 at the University of Tabuk were deemed effective in enhancing various areas and aspects essential for students’ learning.
A Study to Assess Effectiveness of STP on Knowledge and Expressed-Practice regarding OSCE among Nursing-Tutors of Selected Colleges of Gujarat
Authors: Renkina Macwan  , Jerusa J. Gohil
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: OSCE has been widely and increasingly used now-a-days. The OSCE is comprised of several stations; examinees are expected to perform a variety of clinical tasks within a specified time period. Performing a variety of clinical skills, in the laboratory there by evaluating competency of skills is possible. Investigator had conducted this study to assess the knowledge and expressed practice of nursing tutors before and after administration of Structured Teaching Programme on OSCE. And to find out the correlation between post-test knowledge and post-test expressed practice score on OSCE among nursing tutors of selected self-finance nursing colleges.Methods: A pre-experimental research design was used for this study. For data collection, structured tools were prepared which consists of three parts, first part deals with demographic data, second and third part includes structured quantitative questionnaire. Simple random sampling technique was used to select potential participants. Total 50 participants were selected with chit and lottery method for this study. Results:The study revealed that mean post-test knowledge score (14.1) was higher than mean pre-test knowledge score (7.52). The mean post-test expressed practice score (8.1) was higher than mean pre-test expressed practice score (3.56). There is an existence of a positive correlation (r =0.66) between knowledge and expressed Practice.Conclusion: The participants gained knowledge after delivering structured teaching about OSCE. There is positive co-relation between knowledge and expressed practice. So, it proves that structured teaching program is effective in imparting knowledge of OSCE.
Need to Educate Student Nurses for Eye Care: A Descriptive Analysis of Student Nurses’ eye health literacy
Authors: Sakshi Chaturvedi  , Shalini Pal  , Prachi Singh  , Chakrapani Chaturvedi
Published: November 2023

Background: Eye health is really important for health care professionals. Nursing care needs a lot of seeing, from charts and digital data to patients& faces. Nurses need good vision to provide quality treatment. The nurses’ job should be reviewed and documented appropriately, so eye health is vital. Nurses exposed to more online education during student time risk eye health and work errors.Materials and Methods: This study was conducted with a detailed descriptive cross-sectional research design. A pre-validated self-structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Using descriptive statistics, student nurses’ demographics, knowledge, and practice scores were described for care of eyes while attending Online classes. The association between demographic variables and student nurse knowledge and practice was studied using a chi-square test and correlation coefficient.Results: The Mean knowledge score of student nurses regarding the prevention of eye problems during online learning was found to be 11.43, SD2.36 and the Mean practice score was 4.42and SD 1.53 a significant positive linear relationship between knowledge and practice relationship was found (r=0.47,p=0.004).Conclusion: There is a gap between the knowledge and practice scores of student nurses for eye health while learning online. Eye health literacy as well as good eye health practices are highly needed among student nurses.
Knots and Their Related $q$-Series
Authors:   Southern University of Science and Technology, P.R. China, Garoufalidis Stavros , Zagier Don ,   Max Planck Institute for Mathematics, Germany
Published: November 2023

We discuss a matrix of periodic holomorphic functions in the upper and lower half-plane which can be obtained from a factorization of an Andersen-Kashaev state integral of a knot complement with remarkable analytic and asymptotic properties that defines a ${\rm PSL}_2({\mathbb Z})$-cocycle on the space of matrix-valued piecewise analytic functions on the real numbers. We identify the corresponding cocycle with the one coming from the Kashaev invariant of a knot (and its matrix-valued extension) via the refined quantum modularity conjecture of [arXiv:2111.06645] and also relate the matrix-valued invariant with the 3D-index of Dimofte-Gaiotto-Gukov. The cocycle also has an analytic extendability property that leads to the notion of a matrix-valued holomorphic quantum modular form. This is a tale of several independent discoveries, both empirical and theoretical, all illustrated by the three simplest hyperbolic knots.
Deflection of Coronal Mass Ejections in Unipolar Ambient Magnetic Fields
Authors: Ben-Nun Michal , Török Tibor , Palmerio Erika , Downs Cooper , Titov Viacheslav S. , Linton Mark G. , Caplan Ronald M. , Lionello Roberto
Published: November 2023

The trajectories of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are often seen to deviate substantially from a purely radial propagation direction. Such deviations occur predominantly in the corona and have been attributed to “channeling” or deflection of the eruptive flux by asymmetric ambient magnetic fields. Here, we investigate an additional mechanism that does not require any asymmetry of the preeruptive ambient field. Using magnetohydrodynamic numerical simulations, we show that the trajectories of CMEs through the solar corona can significantly deviate from the radial direction when propagation takes place in a unipolar radial field. We demonstrate that the deviation is most prominent below ∼15 R
⊙ and can be attributed to an “effective
I
×
B
force” that arises from the intrusion of a magnetic flux rope with a net axial electric current into a unipolar background field. These results are important for predictions of CME trajectories in the context of space-weather forecasts, as well as for reaching a deeper understanding of the fundamental physics underlying CME interactions with the ambient fields in the extended solar corona.
PEARLS: Near-infrared Photometry in the JWST North Ecliptic Pole Time Domain Field*
Authors: Willmer Christopher N. A. , Ly Chun , Kikuta Satoshi , Kattner S. A. , Jansen Rolf A. , Cohen Seth H. , Windhorst Rogier A. , Smail Ian , Tompkins Scott , Beacom John F. , Cheng Cheng , Conselice Christopher J. , Frye Brenda L. , Koekemoer Anton M. , Hathi Nimish , Hyun Minhee , Im Myungshin , Willner S. P. , Zhao X. , Brisken Walter A. , Civano F. , Cotton William , Hasinger Günther , Maksym W. Peter , Rieke Marcia J. , Grogin Norman A.
Published: November 2023

We present near-infrared (NIR) ground-based Y, J, H, and K imaging obtained in the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) North Ecliptic Pole Time Domain Field (NEP TDF) using the MMT-Magellan Infrared Imager and Spectrometer on the MMT. These new observations cover a field of approximately 230 arcmin2 in Y, H, and K, and 313 arcmin2 in J. Using Monte Carlo simulations, we estimate a 1σ depth relative to the background sky of (Y, J, H, K) = (23.80, 23.53, 23.13, 23.28) in AB magnitudes for point sources at a 95% completeness level. These observations are part of the ground-based effort to characterize this region of the sky, supplementing space-based data obtained with Chandra, NuSTAR, XMM, AstroSat, Hubble Space Telescope, and JWST. This paper describes the observations and reduction of the NIR imaging and combines these NIR data with archival imaging in the visible, obtained with the Subaru Hyper-Suprime-Cam, to produce a merged catalog of 57,501 sources. The new observations reported here, plus the corresponding multiwavelength catalog, will provide a baseline for time-domain studies of bright sources in the NEP TDF.
The Novel OMERACT Ultrasound Scoring System for Salivary Gland Changes in Patients With Sjögren Syndrome Is Associated With MRI and Salivary Flow Rates
Authors: Inanc Nevsun , Jousse-Joulin Sandrine , Abacar Kerem , Cimşit Çagatay , Cimşit Canan , D’Agostino Maria-Antonietta , Naredo Esperanza , Hocevar Alojzija , Finzel Stephanie , Pineda Carlos , Keen Helen , Iagnocco Annamaria , Hanova Petra , Schmidt Wolfgang A. , Mumcu Gonca , Terslev Lene , Bruyn George A.
Published: November 2023

Objective

To assess the construct validity of the novel Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT) ultrasound (US) semiquantitative scoring system for morphological lesions in major salivary glands by comparing it with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and unstimulated whole salivary flow rates (U-WSFRs) in patients with primary Sjögren syndrome (pSS).

Methods

Nine sonographers applied the OMERACT 0-3 grayscale scoring system for parotid (PGs) and submandibular glands (SMGs) in 11 patients with pSS who also had MRIs performed. These were evaluated by 2 radiologists using a semiquantitative 0-3 scoring system for morphological lesions. The agreement between US and MRI and the association between U-WSFRs and imaging structural lesions was determined. A score ≥ 2 for both US and MRI was defined as gland pathology.

Results

The prevalence of US morphological lesions in 11 patients with a score ≥ 2 was 58% for PGs and 76% for SMGs, and 46% and 41% for PGs and SMGs, respectively, for MRI. The agreement between OMERACT US scores and MRI scores was 73-91% (median 82%) in the right PG and 73-91% (median 91%) in the left PG, 55-91% (median 55%) in the right SMG and 55-82% (median 55%) in the left SMG. When relations between the presence of hyposalivation and an US score ≥ 2 were examined, agreement was 91-100% (median 83%) in both PGs and 55-91% (median 67%) in both SMGs.

Conclusion

There is moderate to strong agreement between the OMERACT US and MRI scores for major salivary glands in patients with pSS. Similar agreement ratios were observed between the higher OMERACT US scores and presence of hyposalivation.
Effect of Attending Rheumatologists’ Big 5 Personality Traits on Patient Trust in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: The TRUMP2-SLE Project
Authors: Oguro Nao , Yajima Nobuyuki , Ishikawa Yuichi , Sakurai Natsuki , Hidekawa Chiharu , Ichikawa Takanori , Kishida Dai , Hayashi Keigo , Shidahara Kenta , Miyawaki Yoshia , Yoshimi Ryusuke , Sada Ken-ei , Shimojima Yasuhiro , Kurita Noriaki
Published: November 2023

Objective

Differences in communication styles based on physicians’ personality traits have been identified, particularly in primary care, and these physician-related factors can be important in building patient-physician trust. This study examined the effects of rheumatologists’ personality traits on patients’ trust in their attending rheumatologists.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included adult Japanese patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) at 5 academic medical centers between June 2020 and August 2021. The exposures were the Big 5 personality traits (ie, extraversion, agreeableness, openness, conscientiousness, and emotional stability) of attending rheumatologists using the Japanese version of the 10-Item Personality Inventory scale (1-7 points each). The outcome was the patients’ trust in their attending rheumatologist using the Japanese version of the 5-item Wake Forest Physician Trust Scale (0-100 points). A general linear model was fitted.

Results

The study included 505 patients with a mean age of 46.8 years; 88.1% were women. Forty-three attending rheumatologists (mean age: 39.6 years; 23.3% female) were identified. After multivariable adjustment, higher extraversion and agreeableness were associated with higher trust (per 1-point increase, 3.76 points [95% CI 1.07-6.45] and 4.49 points [95% CI 1.74-7.24], respectively), and higher conscientiousness was associated with lower trust (per 1-point increase, −2.17 points [95% CI −3.31 to −1.03]).

Conclusion

Whereas higher extraversion and agreeableness of attending rheumatologists led to higher patient trust in their rheumatologist, overly high conscientiousness may lead to lower trust resulting from the physicians’ demand of responsibility and adherence to instructions from patients with SLE.
Hepatic hemangioma: proportion and predictor of surgical treatment with emphasis on its growth rate
Authors: Shin Young Cheol , Cho Eun Ju , Na Hee Young , Cho Jai Young , Han Ho-Seong , Lee Yoon Jin , Kim Haeryoung , Jang Sangmi , Choi Gwang Hyeon , Jang Eun Sun , Kim Jin-Wook , Jeong Sook-Hyang
Published: November 2023

Background/Aims: There are limited studies on the management of hepatic hemangiomas (HHs). We investigated the proportion and predictors of surgical resection and analyzed HH growth rates in addition to associated factors.Methods: A retrospective case-control study of patients treated in 2 centers was conducted. Thirty-six patients who underwent surgical resection were assigned to the case group. Patients who did not undergo surgical treatment were randomly sigselected at a 1:10 ratio and assigned to the control group (n = 360). Baseline characteristics, clinical course and surgical outcomes were analyzed.Results: The proportion of surgically treated HH patients was 0.3% (36 per 11,049). The longest diameter at diagnosis (mean ± standard deviation) was 7.7 ± 5.2 cm in the case group and 2.4 ± 1.8 cm in the control group (p < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, the presence of more than 2 HHs (odds ratio [OR] 7.64, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.40–41.72) and a growth rate of more than 4.8%/year (OR 30.73, 95% CI 4.86–194.51) were independently associated with surgical treatment. Symptom development during follow-up was related to HH size > 10 cm (OR 10.50, 95% CI 1.06–103.77, p = 0.04). The subgroup analysis showed substantial growth in 41.3% with an overall mean annual growth rate of 0.14 cm.Conclusions: Approximately one in 300 patients with an HH underwent surgical treatment. Multiple HHs and a growth rate of more than 4.8%/year were indications for surgical treatment. Nearly half of the HHs showed growing pattern in our study.
Exercise capacity and risk of incident atrial fibrillation in healthy adults
Authors: Kim Ju Youn , Cho Soo Jin , Kim Juwon , Chung Tae-Wan , Park Seung-Jung , Park Kyoung-Min , Kim June Soo , On Young Keun
Published: November 2023

Background/Aims: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common arrhythmia and is associated with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. It is important to identify and control the modifiable risk factors of AF. We aimed to examine the association of exercise capacity with the risk of incident AF within 3 years in healthy subjects.Methods: We evaluated asymptomatic adults who had undergone more than two consecutive health checkups. We included subjects who exhibited normal sinus rhythm on the first health examination and who developed AF on the second or subsequent health examinations. Subjects who underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing within 3 years before the diagnosis of AF were examined.Results: The study population in the analyses included 428 cases (mean age 58.4 ± 7.6 yr, male 95.6%). There were significant differences in maximal systolic blood pressure (SBP; case 169.4 ± 24.2 vs. control 173.9 ± 22.3 mmHg), peak VO2 (29.5 ± 5.4 vs. 30.4 ± 4.8 mL/kg per minute), and maximal metabolic equivalents (METs; 8.5 ± 1.6 vs. 8.7 ± 1.4) between the two groups. In the multivariable logistic models, adjusted odds ratios were 0.99 for maximal SBP (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.98–0.99), 0.97 for peak VO2 (95% CI 0.95–0.99), and 0.91 for maximal METs (95% CI 0.83–0.98).Conclusions: We demonstrated that poorer exercise capacity was associated with the development of AF in a healthy population. A prospective, systematic trial is necessary to confirm that appropriate exercise training will be beneficial in preventing the development of AF in such patients.
Factors influencing occurrence of metachronous gastric cancer after endoscopic resection: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Choe Younghee , Park Jae Myung , Kim Joon Sung , Cho Yu Kyung , Kim Byung-Wook , Choi Myung-Gyu
Published: November 2023

Background/Aims: Metachronous gastric cancer (MGC) can occur after endoscopic resection for gastric cancer. Further studies on factors other than Helicobacter pylori infection are needed. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate risk factors for metachronous recurrence of endoscopically resected gastric cancer.Methods: We searched medical literature published by February 2023 and identified patients with MGC after endoscopic resection for gastric cancer. The occurrence of MGC and the presence of intestinal metaplasia (IM), severe atrophic gastritis (AG), and H. pylori infection were quantitatively analyzed.Results: We identified 2,755 patients from nine cohort studies who underwent endoscopic resection for gastric cancer by 2018. Those with severe AG or presence of IM had a significantly higher incidence of MGC than those without (RR 2.00, 95% CI 1.35–2.98, I2 = 52% for severe atrophy on antrum; RR 7.08, 95% CI 3.63–13.80, I2 = 0% for antral IM). Absolute risk difference of MGC occurrence was 7.1% in those with severe AG and 9.2% in those with IM. The difference in incidence rate per 1,000 person-years was 17.5 person-years for those with severe AG and 24.7 person-years for those with IM. However, H. pylori eradication did not significantly affect the occurrence of MGC (RR 1.18, 95% CI 0.88–1.59, I2 = 10%).Conclusions: Gastric cancer patients with severe AG or presence of IM had a 2.0-fold or 7.0-fold higher risk of MGC occurrence after endoscopic resection than those without, respectively. They need more stringent follow-up to monitor MGC occurrences (CRD42023410940).
Association between knee osteoarthritis and mortality: a serial propensity score-matched cohort study
Authors: Oh Minkyung , Kim Mi-Yeong , So Min Wook , Lim Doo-Ho , Choi Su Jin , Lee Jae Ha , Her Minyoung , Kim Seong-Ho , Lee Sunggun
Published: November 2023

Background/Aims: The association between symptomatic knee osteoarthritis (OA) and higher cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality is established; however, findings from studies that utilized regression analysis were limited, attributed to the strong association between OA and metabolic risk factors. This study aimed to evaluate the association between knee OA and mortality through propensity score matching.Methods: This was a cohort study including Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2010–2013) participants aged ≥ 50 years. By linking the survey data to cause of death data (through 2019) from Statistics Korea, mortality and cause-specific mortality data were obtained. Radiographic knee OA (ROA) was defined as bilateral Kellgren–Lawrence grade ≥ 2. Propensity score matching (1:1) was conducted between asymptomatic ROA, knee pain, and symptomatic ROA groups and normal groups, balancing the confounding factors. Time to death was analyzed using Cox proportional hazard modeling.Results: A higher CVD mortality was observed in the symptomatic ROA group, but not in others; the risk estimates were asymptomatic ROA (hazard ratio [HR] 1.12; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.77–1.65), knee pain (HR 0.61; 95% CI 0.27–1.38), and symptomatic ROA (HR 1.39; 95% CI 0.89–2.17). No association was found between the all-cause/cancer mortality and other groups.Conclusions: When propensity score matching controls metabolic risk factor imbalances, the association between symptomatic knee OA and higher CVD mortality was weaker compared to results of prior studies that used regression adjustment. The results may be more precise estimates of the total risk of knee OA for mortality in Koreans.
Long-acting interferon: pioneering disease modification of myeloproliferative neoplasms
Authors: Yoon Seug Yun , Kim Sung-Yong
Published: November 2023

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are clonal disorders of hematopoietic stem cells. The malignant clones produce cytokines that drive self-perpetuating inflammatory responses and tend to transform into more aggressive clones, leading to disease progression. The progression of MPNs follows a biological sequence from the early phases of malignancy, polycythemia vera, and essential thrombocythemia, to advanced myelofibrosis and leukemic transformation. To date, the treatment of MPNs has focused on preventing thrombosis by decreasing blood cell counts and relieving disease-related symptoms. However, interferon (IFN) has been used to treat MPNs because of its ability to attack cancer cells directly and modulate the immune system. IFN also has the potential to modulate diseases by inhibiting JAK2 mutations, and recent studies have demonstrated clinical and molecular improvements. Long-acting IFN is administered less frequently and has fewer adverse effects than conventional IFN. The current state of research on long-acting IFN in patients with MPNs is discussed, along with future directions.
Research on a collaborative evolution model of multi-airport route network considering subsidy strategies
Authors: Wu Wei , Lin Zhiyi , Wei Ming
Published: November 2023

To efficiently utilize subsidy strategies for optimizing multi-airport route networks and promoting collaborative development among multiple airports, we delve into the tripartite strategic interactions between passengers, airlines and airports. A dual-layer game-theoretic model is constructed to optimize subsidy strategies, facilitating a synergistic alignment between multi-airport positioning and route networks. In the upper-layer game-theoretic model, Fermi rules are employed to analyze the interplay between pricing strategies of distinct airline brands and passenger travel preferences, aiding in determining optimal pricing strategies for airlines. The lower-layer game-theoretic model introduces an asymmetric stochastic best response equilibrium (QRE) model, drawing insights from optimal airline pricing and the impact of airport subsidies on airline route adjustments to formulate effective multi-airport subsidy strategies. The results reveal that: (ⅰ) Airline revenues display varying peaks based on travel distances, with optimal fare discount intervals clustering between 0.6 and 0.9, contingent upon travel distances and passenger rationality; (ⅱ) dynamic monopolistic intervals and inefficient ranges characterize airport subsidy strategies due to diverse competitive strategies employed by rivals; (ⅲ) targeted airport subsidy strategies can enhance inter-airport route coordination in alignment with their functional positioning. This research provides decision-making insights into collaborative airport group development, encompassing airport subsidy strategies and considerations for airline pricing.
Socio-Ecological and Green Technological Innovation
Authors: Vargas-Hernandez José G. , Vargas-González Omar C.
Published: November 2023

This study intends to analyze the impact of environmental regulation and incentives in socio-ecological and green technological innovation. It departs from the assumption that environmental regulation affects the performance of socio-ecological and green technological innovation in organizations. The method employed is critical analytical and reflective based on the theoretical, conceptual, and methodological literature. It is concluded that the analysis confirms that there is a direct relationship between the incentives of environmental regulation and the socio-ecological and green technological innovation in organizations.
Education 5.0 in the Context of Teaching Accounting
Authors: Aleixo Conceição , Silva Susana , Godinho Teresa
Published: November 2023

Higher education institutions play a crucial role in the teaching-learning process as they are primarily responsible for preparing students for their entry into the business environment. The aim of this study is to assess students' perceptions of a new teaching approach and its impact on their personal and professional development. At the level of course coordination, the findings will inform reflections on which pedagogical practices should be implemented to align with the student-focused teaching paradigm and the implementation of an Education 5.0 framework in the bachelor's degree program in accounting and finance at the Polytechnic Institute of Setúbal. The research employs a qualitative analysis approach, and the main results indicate that participants recognize the importance of Education 5.0 for their personal and professional development as certified accountants.
Stealth Assessment and Digital Learning Game Design
Authors: Smith Ginny L. , Shute Valerie J. , Rahimi Seyedahmad , Dai Chih-Pu , Kuba Renata
Published: November 2023

Stealth assessment is an innovative way to measure a set of student competencies through gameplay. The process starts with a competency model that is comprised of everything you want to measure during the assessment, the theoretical concepts being assessed. The competency model is the glue of the stealth assessment, as alignment of the task model and evidence model to the competency model is key to creating a valid stealth assessment. The following chapter examines the different design challenges and approaches used for creating and implementing a stealth assessment through the lens of two design cases. In the first case, a stealth assessment is implemented into an already developed game. In the second case, a stealth assessment is being expanded and a new competency model is needed to represent the expanded content. The chapter concludes with a discussion comparing the two approaches to implementing stealth assessment and implications for future design.
The Effect of Different Fluid Therapy Methods on Hemodynamic Parameters, Blood Sugar, Blood Gases, and Blood Electrolytes in Six Months to Four Years Old Children Undergoing Surgery
Authors: Sajedi Parvin , Shafa Amir , Ashrufi Maryam
Published: November 2023

Background:

Considering the necessity of employing an appropriate fluid therapy for patients during the surgery to have hemodynamic stability and electrolyte balance and the lack of studies addressing children in this regard, the present study aimed at investigating the effect of different fluid therapy methods on hemodynamic parameters, blood sugar (BS), blood gases, and blood electrolytes in children undergoing surgery.

Materials and Methods:

The current clinical trial was conducted on 105 children aged 6 months to 4 years that were candidates for surgery. These patients were randomly divided into three groups undergoing intraoperative fluid therapy with 1/5-4/5 serum, Ringer’s, and 1/3-2/3 serum. The values of hemodynamic parameters, BS, serum electrolytes (sodium, potassium, and chloride), and blood gases (pH, HCO3, and BE) were evaluated and compared among the three groups.

Results:

The level of BS at the end of the surgery in Ringer’s group with mean 166.20 ± 39.46 mg/dl was significantly lower than its level in the other two groups (1/5-4/5 serum: 241.00 ± 51.11 and 1/3-2/3 serum: 189.20 ± 34.23; P value < 0.05). Moreover, pH, HCO3, and BE at the end of the surgery had significant differences between the three groups (P value < 0.05). The amount of urine output at all follow-up times revealed a significant difference between Ringer’s group and the other two groups (P value < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Use of Ringer’s serum during anesthesia in children, in addition to maintaining BS and electrolytes within the normal range, has resulted in greater stability of hemodynamic responses and maintenance of the body’s acid-base balance.
Pleural Sarcoidosis
Authors: Banka Amitabh , Narasimhan Aarthi , Narasimhan R.
Published: November 2023

Sarcoidosis is a disorder that may involve multiple systems of the body and is diagnosed by confirming the noncaseating granulomas in tissues. However, pulmonary involvement is most common. Pleural involvement is very rare, and with newer advanced diagnostic modalities, it is now being diagnosed more often. In pleural involvement, it may be more common in the form of effusion, pneumothorax, thickening, and rarely in form of nodules, hydropneumothorax, and chylothorax. A definitive diagnosis needs a demonstration of noncaseating granuloma in tissue. Mostly responds to medical therapy and rarely may require surgical intervention. There have been many case reports stating pleural involvement in sarcoidosis. This review is an effort to compile all types of pleural involvement and provide it as compilation.
Isolated Pulmonary Hypertension Without Interstitial Lung Disease with Progressive Dyspnea in Young Female Needs Connective Tissue Diseases Workup
Authors: Patil Shital , Narwade Ganesh , Acharya Abhijit
Published: November 2023

Obstructive airway disease is the leading cause of breathlessness in young patients and in the absence of atopy or chest radiograph abnormalities such as nontubular heart and enlarged pulmonary artery mandates more workup. Pulmonary manifestations of mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) range from bronchiolitis and bronchiectasis to interstitial lung disease and pulmonary hypertension. In this case report, a 25 year old female, presented with progressive dyspnoea and received treatment in line of obstructive airway disease with inhaled bronchodilators with inhaled corticosteroids with clinical worsening and no treatment response even after 24 months with good compliance. Radiological workup documented cardiomegaly with enlarged pulmonary artery in chest X-ray, multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) thorax documented grossly enlarged pulmonary arteries with dilated right heart chambers, and echocardiography documented severe pulmonary hypertension with dilated right atrium and right ventricle. Vasculitis and connective tissue diseases (CTD) workup was documented as strongly positive antinuclear antibody (ANA) with very highly raised titers, with other parameters in ANA blot documented positive antigens such as U1-small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle, SSA/RO, single-strand DNA, and Scl-70. We have started on tadalafil, ambrisentan, and diuretics, and documented clinical response with increased work performance with improved quality of life with stabilization of pulmonary artery pressures on echocardiography at 12 weeks of treatment. We recommend young female genders with progressive dyspnea with nontubular heart on chest radiograph with or without enlarged pulmonary artery needs prompt workup such as high-resolution computed tomography/MDCT thorax, echocardiography, and ANA blot for early pickup of underlying CTD/MCTD to have successful treatment outcome.
Unilateral Opaque Hemithorax Secondary to Teratoma
Authors: Manivannan Yogeshwari , Murthy K Anupama
Published: November 2023

Mediastinal teratoma makes nearly 8%–13% of all mediastinal tumors, with peak incidence seen in young patients. A 26-year-old male presented with complaints of nonproductive cough, breathlessness, right side chest pain, and fever for 1-week duration. Chest X-ray showed homogeneous opacity of the right hemithorax with blunting of the right costophrenic angle. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography thorax showed multiloculated cystic lesion with the area of fat calcification in the right side of the upper mediastinum. Ultrasonography-guided biopsy shows feature suggestive of benign teratoma. Most teratoma tends to exhibit heterogeneous attenuation on computer tomography imaging.
Industrial Waste Heat Potential for Meeting Heat Demand in the Republic of Serbia
Authors:   University of Belgrade, Faculty of Mining and Geology, IVEZIĆ Dejan , ŽIVKOVIĆ Marija ,   University of Belgrade, Faculty of Mining and Geology
Published: November 2023

Final energy consumption in the industrial sector accounts for almost 25% of energy-related final energy consumption in the Republic of Serbia. It is estimated that 50-70% of energy consumption in industry, is intended to heat production in various industrial processes. Some of the produced heat is irreversibly wasted: through walls of process equipment, as the energy of flue gases, wastewater, etc. Utilization of waste heat for meeting heating needs, within or outside of an industrial facility, although possible and recommended, is a challenging task. Carriers of waste heat may be different (flue gases from the combustion process, liquid fluids from the washing, drying or cooling process, etc.), as well as their temperature range (from below 50°C to over 500°C.). Availability of waste heat is highly dependent on industrial processes, while potential consumers often may be distanced from an industrial site. The paper presents the results of the evaluation of waste heat potential for some industrial subbranches in Serbia, based on a previously developed methodology. Based on data about energy consumption in selected subbranches of industry, and the temperature of waste heat carriers, the theoretical potential of this alternative source for direct utilization or utilization by compression heat pumps in district heating systems is determined.
Rekonfiguracija i otočna kompenzacija u prisustvu distribuiranih izvora u razgranatoj distributivnoj mreži
Authors:   Tehnički opitni centar, Beograd, Srbija, STOJANOVIĆ Branko , RAJIĆ Tomislav ,   University of Belgrade, School of Electrical Engineering, ŠOŠIĆ Darko ,   University of Belgrade, School of Electrical Engineering
Published: November 2023

Distribution utilities witness many changes nowadays. If the network voltages must be in 0.9-1.1 p.u. limits and grid input power factor greater than 0.85 all three modern strategies of smart distribution network as reconfiguration, capacitors switching and presence of distribution generation (DG) ought to be applied. Even in this case On Load Tap Changer (OLTC) in the supplying substation has to be used. In this paper, detailed technical analysis of 21 realistic operation cases is presented by hybrid algorithm of Minimum spanning tree (MST) plus Simulated Annealing (SA). MST is used for tackling reconfiguration first and SA for capacitor switching afterwards. Implemented transparent grafical Monte Carlo method for locating of distributed generators and capacitor banks is unique and simple. Assumption is that DG is already present. Gauss and Weibull changing nodal loads and wind generators output, respectively as well as daily load curves for working and weekend day with insolation of solar panels are included in analysis. The objective function comprising of the cost of power losses, price of capacitors and undelivered energy is minimized. IEEE 118 bus network is analyzed which has 118 nodes and 132 branches (15 ties), all of which can commutate, that is considered to be large scale. The basic switching logic of uniform distribution of wind generators to the nodes and capacitors in accordance with objective function, that changes every hour is unrealistic. More realistic one was issued with fixed nodes for allocation of DG and capacitors (the most frequently visited nodes). The programme final objective function indicates the price of peak power losses, losses of delivered electrical energy, of the banks, of undelivered electrical energy and commutations for the period of month and a half (1008 network operating hours).
Energo koncept Yaodong podzemnih zgrada u XXI veku na teritoriji Srbije
Authors:   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of Engineering, Kragujevac, Serbia, NEŠOVIĆ Aleksandar , NIKOLIĆ Danijela ,   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of Engineering, Kragujevac, Serbia, LUKIĆ Nebojša ,   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of Engineering, Kragujevac, Serbia
Published: November 2023

Due to their interesting architectural solution, Yaodong underground buildings seem to offer a balance between the natural and created parameters of the locations (on the one side) and ambient comfort (on the other side). In the first part of the paper, the Yaodong concept is defined (time of creation, geographical origin, categorization, the spatial organization of the interior, geometrical characteristics, etc.). In the second part of the work, the Authors develop a concrete model (in the Google SketchUp software) of the traditional Yaodong underground building, and then simulate (in the EnergyPlus software) the consumption of final and primary energy in the same, while using a weather file for the city of Kragujevac. Although this type of construction is characteristic of northwestern China, the authors think that the mentioned construction design can be of national importance, especially when taking into account the fact that the consumption of final (and primary) energy of the last year at its peak, which also applies to the residential sector.
Integrative GHG Assessment in Oil and Gas Industry
Authors:   MudoZangl Nigeria ltd., MIRKOVIĆ Aleksandar , ŽIVKOVIĆ Marija ,   University of Belgrade, Faculty of Mining and Geology, ĐENADIĆ Stevan ,   University of Belgrade, Faculty of Mining and Geology, LUBARDA Darja ,   MudoZangl Nigeria ltd., ANYANWA Chinedu ,   MudoZangl Nigeria ltd.
Published: November 2023

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is one of the main targets of national strategies in European countries. As a main contributor to emissions, the energy sector is recognized as the most promising to apply measures and actions aimed to decrease GHG emissions. The Oil and Gas industry as a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions is facing a growing need for estimating, mitigating, and reducing the impact of their operations on the atmosphere to stay competitive in a newly arising green economy. The goal to reduce GHG emissions emphasizes the need for identification of the main sources of emission in the Oil and Gas industry. This paper presents the comprehensive blueprint for the development of a greenhouse gas emissions inventory for the case of complex industries such as Oil and Gas, including its specifics related to processes of Oil and Gas production and processing (flaring, fugitive emissions, etc.). The model is implemented for a case of a typical upstream oil and gas company, with the aim to identify the main sources of emission. It was shown that the major source of emission is gas flaring, while the key contributor is uncombusted methane.