bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Labor Market Volatility and Worker Financial Wellbeing: An Occupational and Gender Perspective
Authors:   Center for Economic and Policy Research, Cai Julie
Published: January 2024

One emerging but underexplored factor that is likely to contribute to group racial earnings disparity is unstable work schedules. This is often detrimental for hourly workers when volatility is frequent, involuntary, or unanticipated. Using data from 2005-2022 monthly Current Population Survey and its panel design, this study follows a group of hourly workers across a four-month period to assess whether labor market volatility relates to their financial well-being, focusing on low-wage care and service occupations as well as female workers and workers of color. The findings are threefold: In general, during economic expansion periods, nonwhite workers often benefit more in terms of wage growth compared to their white counterparts. Second, net of other characteristics, on average, greater volatility is associated with lower earnings, and this is mostly driven by those holding jobs in low-wage service sectors and health care support roles. Last, the earnings consequences of volatility vary significantly by the type of low-wage jobs a worker holds and their gender and race, but this is only true when volatility happens in a job. Specifically, when working within the same employment spell, female workers, particularly those of color and those working in low-wage service and care jobs, earn significantly less when facing greater volatility than their male counterparts or those working in non-service, non-care occupations.
Ідентифікація оптимальних параметрів термообробки пластин локальним нагріванням і охолодженням
Authors: Добрянський І.М. , Добрянська Л.О. , Ільчук Н.І.
Published: January 2024

Виконано співставлення достовірності результатів проведеного математичного моделювання для процесу термообробки пластинчатих систем при дії рухомих джерел нагріву. Описано та запропоновано підхід для визначення загальної кількості теплової енергії, яка може перерозподілятися у зварювальній пластині через локальний термічний вплив.
Конвективний теплообмін при дослідженні процесів термічного розтріскування бетонних зразків за дії лазерного опромінення
Authors: Добрянська Л.О. , Добрянський І.М. , Ільчук Н.І.
Published: January 2024

В дослідженнях використано схему побудови розв’язку незв’язаної задачі квазістатичної термопружності для півбезмежного тіла за змішаних граничних умов, що піддається нагріванню в обмеженій області граничної поверхні тепловим потоком і на основі виконаного розв’язку проведеного обґрунтованого підходу до здійснення розрахунку необхідних параметрів для терморозтріскування, який проведено з використанням критеріального рівняння (Грифітса та МакКлінтока-Велша) з механіки крихкого руйнування. Загальна схема була випробувана на бетонних зразках двох різних типів, які мали різну міцність на стиск.
Експериментальні дослідження елементів збірно-монолітного безкапітельно-безбалкового перекриття
Authors: Микитенко С.М.
Published: January 2024

Проведено експериментальні дослідження елементів безкапітельно-безбалкового перекриття. Дослідження проводилися шляхом випробувань натурного фрагменту багатоквартирного будинку на дію експлуатаційних навантажень. Отримані результати проведених випробувань підтвердили прийняті розрахункові положення та конструюванні рішення вузлів та елементів збіно-монолітного перекриття безкапітельно-безбалкового каркасу.
Визначення несучої здатності косозігнутих балок на основі розрахункового опору залізобетону
Authors: Павліков А.М. , Гарькава О.В. , Атембемох К.
Published: January 2024

На основі передумов розрахунку за Єврокодом 2 розроблено концепцію визначення значення розрахункового опору залізобетону при розрахунку міцності косозігнутих залізобетонних елементів. При цьому застосовано теорему про паралельність розташування площин дії внутрішніх та зовнішніх сил. Розглянуті випадки розрахунку для трикутної та трапецієподібної форм стиснутої зони бетону, що є характерними для косого згинання балкових елементів. Виведені залежності для обчислення коефіцієнта впливу косого згинання на значення характеристик елемента прямокутного перерізу з різними формами стиснутої зони бетону. Запропонований метод розрахунку міцності у нормальному перерізі балкових елементів при косому їх згинанні апробований шляхом порівняння результатів розрахунків з експериментальними даними для 12 зразків косозігнутих балок.
Analysis of the Thermal Stability of PCMs and Its Effect on Energy Storage Efficiency
Authors: - Jayakrishnan V M , - Sreekanth S , - Ganesh J G
Published: January 2024

The intermittent nature of many sources of clean energy has a considerable impact on energy conversion efficiency, making it a significant hurdle to the development of adequate power generation systems. The rapid advancement of thermal energy storage offers hope for a solution to this issue (TES). Applications that produce energy from renewable sources benefit from TES because it increases their efficiency and dispatchability. Phase Change Materials (PCMs) are becoming more and more popular for use in thermal energy storage (TES). Since they increase the heat transfer area and stop melted materials from escaping, microcapsules boost the thermal and mechanical performance of PCMs used to store thermal energy. The number of studies addressing the benefits of PCM microcapsules in energy systems has increased in recent years. This article provides a thorough analysis of PCM microcapsules for thermal energy storage. The five areas discussed here are PCM categorization, encapsulation shell materials, microencapsulation techniques, characterisation of PCM microcapsules, and thermal applications. Understanding PCM microcapsules and providing key concepts for using this technology for the storage of thermal energy in the future are the objectives of this analysis.
Workplace Well-Being in Post-COVID-19 Indonesia: Workplace Loneliness and Happiness at Work with the Moderating Role of Perceived Social Support
Authors: - Alifia Raniaputri Hendraswara , - Alice Salendu
Published: January 2024

Social relationships within the workplace have been recognized to be vital for employee’s well-being. In this post Covid-19 era in Indonesia, major shifts in working arrangements have the potential to impact employees’ social relationships dynamics. Loneliness can emerge as a counterpoint to having positive social relationships. This non-experimental research employs a survey method to explore Workplace Loneliness (WL), Perceived Workplace Social Support (PWSS), and Happiness at Work (HAW) in post Covid-19 pandemic Indonesia. Statistical analysis is performed on responses from 201 participants representing employees with diverse working arrangements in Indonesian organizations, sampled using convenience sampling. Key research findings are as follows: 1) Comparing three employee groups with different working arrangements (WFH, WFO, and a blend of WFH and WFO) reveals no significant differences in WL levels, yet PWSS and HAW levels among the compared groups show significant variations. 2) WL has a significant negative association with HAW. 3) A moderation analysis is performed to reveal a significant negative interaction effect of WL and PWSS on HAW. These findings contribute to existing literature by shedding light on variables related to employee perceptions of social relationships and well-being in the workplace. This research delves into how employee perceptions of both negative (loneliness) and positive (perceived social support) aspects of social relationships correlate with workplace happiness. Additionally, this research highlights the post-Covid-19 disruption context in Indonesia, which impacted variations of employees’ working arrangements.
Factors influencing Turnover Intention among Millennial Nurses at Local General Hospitals
Authors:   Korean Association of Health and Medical Sociology, Kim Hee , Yu Mi
Published: January 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to assess the relationship between work-life balance, professionalism, the nursing work environment, job satisfaction, and turnover intention, and to identify the influencing factors on turnover intention among millennial nurses at rural general hospitals.
Method: Participants were 154 nurses born after 1989, working in two general hospitals located in C city of G province. Data were collected from August 25 to September 6, 2023, using a self-report questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficients, and hierarchical regression analyses were conducted using SPSS version 25.0.
Results: In the hierarchical regression analysis, the variables affecting turnover intention were years of total experience, with different impacts noted for those with less than 1 to 5 years (β=.34, p=.002) and more than 5 years (β=.38, p=.001) in Model 1. In Model 2, work-life balance (β=-.19, p=.019) and professionalism (β=-.26, p=.001) were significant variables affecting turnover intention. Model 3 showed that the nursing work environment was an additional significant variable affecting turnover intention (β=-.35, p<.001), but job satisfaction (β =-.06, p=.507) did not significantly affect turnover intention. The total explanatory power was 34.9% (F=9.73, p<.001, R²=.349).
Conclusion: The results suggest that various nursing management strategies and career management programs that consider nurses’ clinical experience and the nursing work environment are needed to reduce nurses’ turnover intention.
Factors Related to the Difficulty of Foreign Workers’ Health Information Acquisition in Korea
Authors:   Korean Association of Health and Medical Sociology, Kang Eunjung , Baek Minah
Published: January 2024

Independent variables included sociodemographic characteristics such as country of origin, subjective health level, and health insurance subscription, length of stay in Korea, language difficulties when using medical care, experiences of discrimination, and social networks. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with difficulty in acquiring health information. As a result of the analysis, 49.5% of the sample experienced difficulty in acquiring health information. Factors associated with relatively high difficulty in obtaining health information include having a spouse, country of origin (Cambodia, Philippines, Myanmar, China), low subjective health level, short total length of stay in Korea, experiencing language difficulties when using medical care, experiencing discrimination, and a lack of interaction with Korean colleagues. Based on the results of this study, we proposed measures such as developing an intercultural communication competency education program for medical personnel, institutional changes in the employment permit system, and development of visual online information materials to increase foreign workers' acquisition of health information.
Improving Student Learning Outcomes Using Crossword Based Worksheet In Primary Schools
Authors: Oktavia Mitra , Hiltrimartin Cecil , Wati Destieana
Published: January 2024

Purpose of the study: This research aims to improve student learning outcomes by using TTS-based LKPD in the learning process.
Methodology: This research was carried out in class IV.B of Elementary School 7 Palembang in the science and sciences subject. The research method used is classroom action research. The population and sample in this study were all class IV students at SDN 07 Palembang. The data collection techniques used by researchers are observation and tests. The data analysis technique used is qualitative analysis and quantitative analysis.
Main Findings: The results of research using TTS-based LKPD in science and science subjects in class IV can improve student learning outcomes with results in cycle I as much as 45.4%, cycle II as much as 81.8%, and cycle III as much as 88.4% as well as post-test 95.4% with a student completion target of 85%.
Novelty/Originality of this study: TTS-based LKPD can improve student learning outcomes in class IV science and science subjects at Elementary School 7 Palembang.
La inteligencia artificial en la educación y sus implicaciones: un mapeo sistemático de la literatura
Authors:   Universidad Abierta Interamericana, Facultad de Tecnología Informática, Centro de Altos Estudios en Tecnología Informática. Buenos Aires, Argentina, León Granizo Oscar Darío , Neil Carlos ,   Universidad Abierta Interamericana, Facultad de Tecnología Informática, Centro de Altos Estudios en Tecnología Informática. Buenos Aires, Argentina, Cedillo Jiménez Cinthya Susana ,   Universidad Estatal de Milagro
Published: January 2024

La inteligencia artificial (IA) ha demostrado ser una herramienta prometedora en el campo de la educación, con implicaciones significativas en la forma en que se enseña y se aprende, la inclusión de la IA en educación ha permitido que esta de un impulso en el tema de la recomendación de contenidos educativos haciendo que el aprendizaje sea personalizado y eficiente. Se busca que la inteligencia artificial sea un apoyo significativo al docente, actualmente existen aplicaciones educativas que usan algoritmos de aprendizaje automático para mejorar el aprendizaje. Sin embargo, se busca ir más allá, lograr que los estudiantes puedan recibir una retroalimentación automática y eficiente en la educación en línea. Se utilizaron diferentes fuentes de información, como artículos científicos y revistas especializadas, para recopilar y analizar los datos relevantes. Los resultados revelan que la implementación de la IA en la educación ha demostrado ser beneficiosa en varios aspectos, como la evaluación automatizada, la personalización del aprendizaje y la mejora de la eficiencia educativa. La IA tiene el potencial de transformar la educación, pero es necesario abordar los desafíos y garantizar una implementación ética y efectiva.
Gas asociado de petróleo para generación eléctrica en campos maduros
Authors:   Instituto Universitario Rumiñahui, Álvarez Luis , Llumiquinga Chancosi Jefferson Fabricio , Ayala Diego ,   Sociedad de Ingenieros en Petróleos SPE, Padilla Wilson , Ayala Silvia ,   Instituto Superior Universitario Cotopaxi
Published: January 2024

Las estrategias enfocadas en solucionar los inconvenientes de un campo maduro deben considerar la declinación de la producción, esto es primordial a la hora de establecer futuras inversiones, para no incurrir en costos que hagan perder competitividad y rentabilidad. El Bloque 49 (B49) es un campo petrolero con casi 50 años de explotación, le aquejan los problemas típicos de un campo maduro, su producción lo sitúa como un campo marginal (< 3000 bls/día) y requiere de un conjunto de mecanismos para volverlo competitivo en las condiciones del mercado petrolero actual. Una adecuada gestión del campo y la puesta en marcha de un modelo de eficiencia energética fueron los ejes para disminuir los costos de producción y lograr un barril con un costo de producción de 5.20 USD. Problemas como la disponibilidad de gas, la limitación de la quema de gas, las facilidades para mantener la presión y la distribución del gas son temas que abordan en esta investigación.
Study of the Antimicrobial Activity of Staphylococcal Bacteriophage on a Model of an Infected Skin Wound
Authors: Genatullina G. N.
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial activity of staphylococcal bacteriophage on a model of a skin wound infected with Staphylococcus aureus. The study of antimicrobial activity was carried out in vivo by experimental modeling of a skin wound infected with S.aureus in the interscapular region in nonlinear male rats. All manipulations with animals were performed in accordance with the requirements of regulatory documentation overseeing the management of laboratory animals and work with them. The results obtained indicate the pronounced antimicrobial activity of staphylococcal bacteriophage in conditions of wound infection when applied externally, which is confirmed by a decrease in the degree of bacterial contamination of wound discharge, as well as a decrease in inflammatory phenomena, both at the local level in the form of a decrease in hyperemia, and generalized in the form of a decrease in C-reactive protein levels, total leukocyte count, as well as a decrease in the leukocyte inflammatory index. The identified antimicrobial effect is comparable to the external use of an antiseptic drug — a solution of chlorhexidine digluconate 0.05%, however, when assessing microbial contamination, it was found that the bacteriophage exhibits more pronounced antibacterial activity. Thus, the staphylococcal bacteriophage showed pronounced antimicrobial activity in a model of a skin wound infected with S.aureus, confirmed by a decrease in the number of colonies of the microorganism in the wound discharge, as well as a decrease in the severity of inflammation.
New Approaches to Etiotropic Therapy of ARVI Patients with Riamilovir
Authors: Zhdanov K. V. , Maltsev О. V. , Kasyanenko K. V. , Kozlov K. V. , Sukachev V. S. , Lvov N. I. , Sharabhanov V. V.
Published: January 2024

Aim. To study the efficacy and safety of Riamilovir in patients diagnosed with acute respiratory viral infection using several dosage regimens of the drug.

Material and Methods. The clinical efficacy and safety of Riamilovir were evaluated based on the results of a study, that included 150 patients in three comparative groups, 50 patients each. The research groups received etiotropic antiviral therapy with 1 capsule (250 mg) of Riamilovir 3 times per day for 5 days in the first group; in the second group, patients received Riamilovir off-label — 1 capsule (250 mg) 5 times per day for 5 days; and the third group included 50 patients who received only pathogenetic treatment.

Results. As a result of the study, Riamilovir demonstrated a high safety profile regardless of the dosage regimen; no adverse events were registered. It was shown that Riamilovir use, regardless of the dosage regimen, led to a statistically significant reduction in the duration of inpatient treatment. It should be noted that the shortest periods of hospitalization were observed in patients who received the studied drug at increased daily dosages. Riamilovir was found to reduce the duration and severity of general infectious signs of the disease, while complete elimination of ARVI pathogens occurred by the 6th day of hospitalization; the shortest total duration of fever and a number of respiratory tract syndromes was registered among patients receiving Riamilovir at a daily dose of 1250 mg for 5 days.

Conclusion. The etiotropic antiviral drug Riamilovir has shown clinical efficacy when used in both treatment regimens in patients with acute respiratory viral infections, as well as a good safety profile.
Cardiotoxic Drugs Used in the Treatment of COVID-19
Authors: Zmitrukevich A. S. , Mamedova A. E.
Published: January 2024

Background. The COVID-19 pandemic is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Insufficient attention is paid to the cardiotoxic potential of the drugs used in the treatment of COVID-19.

Aim. A brief report on the effect of the drugs commonly used in the treatment of COVID-19 on the cardiovascular system.

Discussion. Various medications have been used to treat COVID-19. Some of the most common drugs include hydroxychloroquine, remdesvir, favipiravir, fluoroquinolones, interferon-α2b, glucocorticoids, molnupiravir, and ritonavir/nirmatrelvir. Most medications can cause changes in the cardiovascular system, especially in the QT interval.

Conclusions. Physicians should take into account the cardiotoxic potential of all medications used in the treatment of COVID-19. Therapists and general practitioners should be aware of cardiovascular risks in the management of patients with COVID-19, as well as the prophylactic medical examinations of the population.
Antimicrobial Resistance in Sexually Transmitted Infections: Current Trends
Authors: Khryanin A. A.
Published: January 2024

The review article discusses current trends in antibiotic resistance in bacterial and protozoal sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Antimicrobial resistance in STIs has increased significantly in recent decades due to the overuse and misuse of antibiotics, fueled by population migration and the high incidence of STIs worldwide. While emerging cephalosporin-resistant strains of Neisseria gonorrhoeae are one of the most pressing problems in the world, other pathogenic STIs that are resistant to antibiotics, such as Mycoplasma genitalium and Chlamydia trachomatis, are increasingly being reported. The emergence of multidrugresistant strains of bacterial STIs is of particular concern for researchers. The emerging global crisis in STI treatment is the result of neglect and inattention to repeated warnings from researchers about the emergence of STI strains resistant to the existing antibiotics, as well as shifting priorities in the pharmaceutical industry, which limited the development of new antibiotics. The current antimicrobial portfolio does not provide cause for optimism, as it contains few new antibiotics, and most developments are in the early stages of clinical trials. Experts have suggested that the failure of existing STI treatment regimens is largely inevitable and have called for the creation of entirely new classes of antimicrobial drugs that would take decades to develop. Currently, there are several promising alternative strategies for the treatment of antibiotic-resistant STIs. The use of phage therapy, antimicrobial peptides, and hydrolytic enzymes are particularly promising directions.
Implementation of an online spacing flanker task and evaluation of its test–retest reliability using measures of inhibitory control and the distribution of spatial attention
Authors: Lee Sang Ho , Pitt Mark A.
Published: January 2024

The flanker task (Eriksen & Eriksen, Perception & Psychophysics, 16(1), 143-149, 1974) has been highly influential and widely used in studies of visual attention. Its simplicity has made it popular to include it in experimental software packages and online platforms. The spacing flanker task (SFT), in which the distance between the target and flankers varies, is useful for studying the distribution of attention across space as well as inhibitory control. Use of the SFT requires that the viewing environment (e.g., stimulus size and viewing distance) be controlled, which is a challenge for online delivery. We implement and evaluate an online version of the SFT that includes two calibration pretests to provide the necessary control. Test–retest and split-half reliability of the online version was compared with a laboratory version on measures of inhibitory control and measures of the distribution of attention across space. Analyses show that the online SFT is comparable to laboratory testing on all measures. Results also identify two measures with good test–retest reliability that hold promise for studying performance in the SFT: the mean flanker effect (ICC = 0.745) and RTs on incongruent trials across distances (ICC = 0.65–0.71).
Coronary stenting does not improve the long-term cardiovascular outcome of patients with mild to moderate renal insufficiency
Authors: XIE Di , HOU Yu-qing , HOU Fan-fan , ZHANG Wei-ru , LI Yong , GUO Zhi-gang , GUO Zhi-jian , ZHANG Xun
Published: January 2024

Background

Several studies have shown that coronary stenting reduces the frequency of clinical and angiographic restenosis in patients with mild to moderate renal insufficiency. However, less is known about the long-term benefits of stent use in this population. This study was aimed to determine the impact of coronary stenting on extended (5 years) long-term outcomes of patients with chronic renal insufficiency.

Methods

The study included 602 consecutive patients who underwent successful percutaneous coronary intervention with stenting. Renal insufficiency was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 ml·min-1·1.73 m-2. The major adverse cardiac events were compared for patients with (n=160) and without (n=442) renal insufficiency.

Results

After the third year of follow-up, nonfatal myocardial infarction and revascularization rates were significantly increased in patients with renal insufficiency compared with those without renal dysfunction (16.9% vs 7.7%, P=0.001; 29.4% vs 15.8%, P <0.001). In patients who had recurrent cardiovascular events, a significantly higher rate of de novo stenosis revascularization was found in patients with renal insufficiency than without renal insufficiency (57.7% vs 22.7%, P <0.001), while there was no significant difference in target lesion revascularization between the groups (51.9% vs 43.6%, P=0.323). Multivariate analysis demonstrated an independent impact of the presence of renal insufficiency on the major adverse cardiac events (hazard ratio: 1.488, 95% confidence interval: 1.051-2.106, P=0.025) and de novo stenosis (hazard ratio: 5.505, 95% confidence interval: 2.151-14.090, P <0.001).

Conclusions

The late major adverse cardiac events, after successful coronary stenting, is increased in patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 ml·min-1·1.73 m-2. This might be associated with increased risk of de novo stenosis in this population.
The utilization status of aspirin for the secondary prevention of ischemic stroke
Authors: KE Xian-jun , YU Yong-fei , GUO Zhen-li , XU Kang , HAI Hong , ZHANG Ai-he , JIANG Hong , PENG Hong
Published: January 2024

Background

The present study was aimed to investigate the usage of aspirin for the secondary prevention of ischemic stroke, evaluate the correlated factors, and analyze the reasons for not taking and irregularly taking aspirin.

Methods

The patients in this group were all stroke survivors who have formerly been diagnosed with a cerebral infarction or transient ischemic attack (TIA) in our hospital. We investigated their use of aspirin over a three-year period following their hospitalization. According to the patients' aspirin usage, they were divided into treatment and non-treatment groups. In addition, the reasons for not taking or irregularly taking aspirin were analyzed in the two groups.

Results

A total of 1240 patients were studied, including 367 (29.60%) in the treatment group and 873 (70.40%) cases in the non-treatment group. In addition, 201 (16.20%) cases in the treatment group had been regularly taking aspirin (50-325 mg of aspirin daily) for 1 to 3 years or longer. The results demonstrated that the main reasons for not taking aspirin in this study were related to patients' concerns regarding the side effects of taking aspirin (46.45%), as well as the doctors' inadequacy in informing their patients to take aspirin (38.71%). The major reasons for patients to irregularly take aspirin were that the doctors did not notify the length of aspirin usage to their patients (41.57%), and that doctors did not prescribe aspirin upon the patients' follow-up visit (26.51%).

Conclusion

The most effective way to increase patient's compliance for aspirin consumption is to promote the guidelines for stroke treatment and to relay these advances in stroke therapy to the patient.
Fluid therapy for severe acute pancreatitis in acute response stage
Authors: MAO En-qiang , TANG Yao-qing , FEI Jian , QIN Shuai , WU Jun , LI Lei , MIN Dong , ZHANG Sheng-dao
Published: January 2024

Background

Fluid therapy for severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) should not only resolve deficiency of blood volume, but also prevent fluid sequestration in acute response stage. Up to date, there has not a strategy for fluid therapy dedicated to SAP. So, this study was aimed to investigate the effects of fluid therapy treatment on prognosis of SAP.

Methods

Seventy-six patients were admitted prospectively according to the criteria within 72 hours of SAP onset. They were randomly assigned to a rapid fluid expansion group (Group I, n=36) and a controlled fluid expansion group (Group II, n=40). Hemodynamic disorders were either quickly (fluid infusion rate was 10-15 ml·kg-1·h-1, Group I) or gradually improved (fluid infusion rate was 5-10 ml·kg-1·h-1, Group II) through controlling the rate of fluid infusion. Parameters of fluid expansion, blood lactate concentration were obtained when meeting the criteria for fluid expansion. And APACHE II scores were obtained serially for 72 hours. Rate of mechanical ventilation, incidence of abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS), sepsis, and survival rate were obtained.

Results

The two groups had statistically different (P <0.05) time intervals to meet fluid expansion criteria (Group I, 13.5±6.6 hours; Group II, (24.0±5.4) hours). Blood lactate concentrations were both remarkably lower as compared to the level upon admission (P <0.05) and reached the normal level in both groups upon treatment. It was only at day 1 that hematocrit was significantly lower in Group I (35.6%±6.8%) than in Group II (38.5%±5.4%) (P<0.01). Amount of crystalloid and colloid in group I ((4028±1980)ml and (1336±816)ml) on admission day was more than those of group II ((2472±1871)ml and (970±633)ml). No significant difference was found in the total amount of fluids within four days of admission between the two groups (P>0.05). Total amount of fluid sequestration within 4 days was higher in Group I ((5378±2751)ml) than in Group II ((4215±1998)ml, P <0.05). APACHE II scores were higher in Group I on days 1, 2, and 3 (P <0.05). Rate of mechanical ventilation was higher in group I (94.4%) than in group II (65%, P <0.05). The incidences of abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) and sepsis were significantly lower in Group II (P <0.05). Survival rate was remarkably lower in Group I (69.4%) than in Group II (90%, P <0.05).

Conclusions

Controlled fluid resuscitation offers better prognosis in patients with severe volume deficit within 72 hours of SAP onset.
Effects of prior freezing or drying on the swelling behaviour of the bovine cornea
Authors: HUANG Yi-fei , Meek Keith M. , WANG Li-qiang , WANG Da-jiang
Published: January 2024

Background

Frozen or dried corneal grafts are commonly used for stromal transplantation such as lamellar keratoplasty (full or partial thickness), keratophakia, epikeratophakia. Structural properties are important for the final optical results of these surgeries but the effects of freezing/thawing and drying/rehydration on the properties of the stroma are known little compared with the corneal endothelium, mainly because of lack of non-invasive technique to evaluate the stromal structure. This study aimed to investigate the swelling and structural properties of the bovine corneal stroma following freezing or drying by X-ray diffraction which was a non-invasive technique and could give ultra-structural information in hydrated tissues.

Methods

Bovine corneas were either frozen at -40°C or dried to constant weight in a dessicator over silica gel. Swelling was carried out by placing the corneas into dialysis tubing and equilibrating them against various concentrations of polyethylene glycol (PEG) to obtain a range of tissue hydrations. This method minimises the loss of soluble tissue components during the swelling process. Synchrotron X-ray diffraction was used to measure the average intermolecular spacing, the interfibrillar spacing and the fibril diameter as a function of hydration. Changes in light scattering were detected using a microdensitometer.

Results

Freezing and thawing of the cornea caused an increase in light scattering by 63.9% at tissue hydration (H)=3.4, and by 50.0% at H=4.9. Repeated freezing and thawing causes further increased by 38.9% at the second time and another 36.0% at the third time (P <0.05). There was a tendency for both the frozen and the dried corneas to lose some swelling ability, achieving hydrations respectively of 10% and 18% below those of fresh corneas at 0 PEG. There were no changes in the fibril diameters, interfibrillar or intermolecular spacings as measured by X-ray diffraction in the equilibrated fresh, pre-frozen and pre-dried corneas.

Conclusions

The increase in light scattering and the loss of swelling ability after freezing and thawing probably results from structural changes following the close association of the collagen molecules and fibrils whilst the tissue is in the dry or frozen state. Some unknown changes in the extracellular matrix between the collagen fibrils may also play a role in the light scattering. The equilibration technique may improve the quality of rehydrated corneal graft or lenticules used for corneal surgeries.
Classification and management of the tandem ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament and flaval ligament
Authors: GUO Jiong-jiong , YANG Hui-lin , Cheung Kenneth M.C. , TANG Tian-si , Luk Keith D.K.
Published: January 2024

Objective

To provide appropriate guidelines for treatment of tandem ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) and flaval ligament (OFL).

Data sources

Published articles about OPLL and OFL were selected using Medline and Embase electronic databases.

Study selection

An English literature search from January 1980 to December 2006 was conducted. Because many reported cases were incorporated in OFL studies, the key words for search were OFL or OFL and OPLL. The first step revealed 93 studies of which 13 reports of tandem OPLL and OFL (tandem ossification) were selected.

Results

All studies were case series or case report and advocated that the primary therapy for tandem ossification should be operative. The clinical outcomes of surgery were evaluated in most reports, predominantly using the JOA scores. Gender is the only factor which has prognostic value. A higher proportion of women was found in the failure group. A two- stage classification of tandem ossification was developed to relate diagnosis to outcome.

Conclusions

All patients with suspected ossification of the spinal ligaments should undergo routine MRI screening of the whole spine. The correlation of the classification with surgical treatments needs further studies to validate its usefulness.
Diagnosis and treatment of melamine-associated urinary calculus complicated with acute renal failure in infants and young children
Authors: SUN Ning , SHEN Ying , SUN Qiang , LI Xu-ran , JIA Li-qun , ZHANG Gui-ju , ZHANG Wei-ping , CHEN Zhi , FAN Jian-feng , JIANG Ye-ping , FENG Dong-chuan , ZHANG Rui-feng , ZHU Xiao-yu , XIAO Hong-zhan
Published: January 2024

Background

Infants in some areas of China developed urinary lithiasis after being fed with powdered milk that was tainted with melamine in 2008 and very small proportion of the infants developed acute renal failure caused by urinary tract calculus obstruction. The aim of this article was to summarize clinical characteristics, diagnosis and treatment of infants with urinary calculus and acute renal failure developed after being fed with melamine tainted formula milk.

Methods

Data of infant patients with urinary calculus and acute renal failure due to melamine tainted formula milk admitted to the Beijing Children's Hospital Affiliated to the Capital Medical University and the Xuzhou Children's Hospital in 2008 were used to analyze the epidemiological characteristics, clinical manifestations, imaging features as well as effects of 4 types of therapies.

Results All the 34 infants with urinary calculus were complicated with acute renal failure, their blood urea nitrogen (BUN) was (24.1±8.2) mmol/L and creatinine (Cr) was (384.2±201.2) μmol/L. The chemical analysis on the urinary calculus sampled from 15 of the infants showed that the calculus contained melamine and acidum uricum. The time needed for the four types of therapies for returning Cr to normal was (3.5±1.9) days for cystoscopy group, (2.7±1.1) days for lithotomy group, (3.8±2.3) days for dialysis group, and (2.7±1.6) days for medical treatment group, which had no statistically significant difference (P=0.508). Renal failure of all the 34 infants was relieved within 1 to 7 days, averaging (3.00±1.78) days.

Conclusions

Melamine tainted formula milk may cause urinary calculus and obstructive acute renal failure. It is suggested that firstly the patients with urinary calculus complicated with acute renal failure should be treated with dialysis or medication to correct electrolyte disturbance, in particular hyperkalemia, and then relieve the obstruction with available medical and surgical methods as soon as possible. It was observed that the short-term prognosis was satisfactory.
Continuous epidural block of the cervical vertebrae for cervicogenic headache
Authors: HE Ming-wei , NI Jia-xiang , GUO Yu-na , WANG Qi , YANG Li-qiang , LIU Jing-jie
Published: January 2024

Background

Cervicogenic headache (CEH) is caused by a structural abnormality in the cervical spine. Available treatments for CEH include medical therapy, local botulinum toxin injection, cervical epidural corticosteroid injection, and surgery. The objective of this study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of a continuous epidural block of the cervical vertebra.

Methods

Medical records were retrospectively analyzed for 37 patients diagnosed with CEH treated by a continuous epidural block of the cervical vertebra with lidocaine, dexamethasone, and saline (5 ml/min) for 3–4 weeks and triamcinolone acetonide 5 mg once weekly for 3–4 weeks. Pain was measured via the visual analogue scale (VAS) in combination with quality of life assessment. Outcome measures were patient-reported days with mild or moderate pain, occurrence of severe pain, and the daily oral dosages of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug use (NSAID).

Results

In the 3 months immediately preceding placement of the epidural catheter, the mean number of days with mild or moderate pain was 22.0±4.3. The mean occurrence of severe pain was (3.20±0.75) times and the mean oral dosage of NSAID was (1267±325) mg. During the first 6 months after epidural administration of lidocaine and corticosteroids, the mean number of days with mild or moderate pain, the mean occurrence of severe pain, and the mean daily oral dosages of NSAIDs were significantly decreased compared to 3-month period immediately preceding treatment (P <0.01). By 12 months post-treatment, no significant difference in these three outcome measures was noted.

Conclusions

Continuous epidural block of the cervical vertebra for patients with CEH is effective for at least six months. Further research is needed to elucidate mechanisms of action and to prolong this effect.

Chin Med J 2009;122(4):427–430
Clinical assessment for three routes of hysterectomy
Authors: ZHU Lan , LANG Jing-he , LIU Chun-yan , SHI Hong-hui , SUN Zhi-jing , FAN Rong
Published: January 2024

Background

Hysterectomy is a very common surgery in gynecology. Ideal surgery for hysterectomy is microinvasive with few complications. There are three major routes of hysterectomy that are currently used. The aim of this study was to identify the differences of peri-operative outcome among the patients who underwent the three different approaches.

Methods

One hundred and one women undergoing hysterectomy for myoma had the procedure performed by laparoscopic assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH), total vaginal hysterectomy (TVH) or total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH) in a randomized study. We compared the course of peri-operative and post-operative outcome for the three different approaches. Results were evaluated by linear regression analysis, Fisher's exact test and Student's t test for independent samples.

Results

The operation time among the three procedures was not significantly different (P >0.05). The amount of blood loss in the TVH group was less than in the LAVH and TAH groups (P <0.05). The pain score 3 hours after operation in the LAVH group was significantly lower than in the TAH and TVH groups (P <0.001). The pain scores in the LAVH and TVH groups were lower than in the TAH group at 24 and 48 hours after operation (P <0.01). The women who underwent LAVH and TVH had a shorter hospitalization stay (P <0.001). The highest body temperature after operation in the TAH group was higher than that in LAVH and TVH groups (P <0.001).

Conclusions

LAVH and TVH are better procedures for women requiring hysterectomy. The peri-operative and post-operative courses of TVH are better than LAVH, excluding the pain score 3 hours after operation. Vaginal hysterectomy is the most cost-effective approach but the final choice for the route of hysterectomy can depend on many factors such as gynecological disease, patients’ health status and experiences of the gynecologist.
Clinical features and linkage analysis for a Chinese family with autosomal dominant central areolar choroidal dystrophy
Authors: MA Kai , YANG Xiu-fen , HAN Cui , ZHANG Ning , XU Jun , LIU Shou-bin , LU Hai , Snellingen Torkel , WANG Ning-li , LIU Ning-pu
Published: January 2024

Background

A Chinese family with autosomal dominant central areolar choroidal dystrophy (CACD) was identified.

The purpose of this study was to collect the clinical findings from the family and to identify the genetic entity by linkage analysis.

Methods

Forty-three individuals from 3 generations of the family underwent ophthalmologic examinations, including best-corrected visual acuity, examination of the anterior segments, and inspection of the ocular fundus after pharmacologic mydriasis. Affected family members further underwent color vision test, color fundus photography, fluorescein angiography, automated perimetry, and electroretinography. The family was followed up for 30 months.

Peripheral venous blood or buccal swabs were collected from each family member and genomic DNA was extracted.

Linkage analysis was performed for candidate genes or loci using microsatellite markers.

Results

Seven family members in 3 continuous generations were diagnosed as having autosomal dominant CACD.

The family showed progressive development of the disease, affecting both male and female. Age of onset of visual disturbances varied between 11 and 50 years. Phenotypic variability among affected individuals was apparent and ranged from relatively normal-appearing fundus with mild parafoveal pigment mottling to geographic atrophy of the macula. Fluorescein angiography showed hyperfluorescent parafoveal changes in early stage or well-demarcated area of chorioretinal atrophy with enhanced visibility of the residual underlying choroidal vessels in the late stage. Peripheral retina and visual fields were normal in affected individuals. Electroretinogram showed normal or mild reduction in the photopic amplitude. Eight candidate genes (STGD4, RCD1, peripherin/RDS, GUCA1A, RIMS1, UNC119, GUCY2D, and AIPL1) and two genetic loci (4p15.2-16.3, and 17p13) were excluded to be responsible for the disease by linkage analysis.

Conclusions The clinical findings of this Chinese family with CACD shared similarities with previously reported families of other ethnicities. Linkage analysis excluded the known genes and genetic loci, indicating genetic heterogeneity of the disease.
Efficacy and safety of intra-aortic balloon pump-assisted interventional therapy in different age groups of patients with acute coronary syndrome
Authors: WANG Shou-li , LIU Ming-xin , WANG Xiao-zeng , WANG Bin , JING Quan-min , WANG Zu-lu , WANG Dong-mei , MA Ying-yan , WANG Geng , LUAN Bo , ZHAO Xin , HAN Ya-ling
Published: January 2024

Background

Currently intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) has been widely used in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) who undergo percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). However, few studies have been done with regard to the clinical outcome and safety of IABP in assisting PCI in aged patients with ACS. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the safety of IABP in different age groups of patients with ACS.

Methods

Data on 292 ACS patients who received IABP-assisted PCI in Shenyang General Hospital of People's Liberation Army were retrospectively analyzed. More specifically, the successful rate, mortality and complications associated with the treatment were compared between the senior (≥60 years old) and the non-senior (<60 years old) groups of patients.

Results

The attack rate of non-ST segment elevation ACS was significantly higher in the senior group than in the non-senior group (38.8% vs 21.1%, P <0.01). The incidence of the IABP-associated complications was not significantly different between both groups (P >0.05).

Conclusion

The clinical outcome and safety of IABP-assisted PCI in the elderly patients were comparable to that for the non-elderly patients.
Metabolic syndrome in patients with atrial fibrillation in the absence of structural heart disease from a tertiary hospital in China
Authors: TANG Ri-bo , GAO Ling-yun , DONG Jian-zeng , LIU Xiao-hui , LIU Xing-peng , WU Jia-hui , LONG De-yong , YU Rong-hui , DU Xin , MA Chang-sheng
Published: January 2024

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) and atrial fibrillation (AF) are causally related. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of MetS in patients with AF in the absence of structural heart disease from a tertiary hospital in China.

Methods

In a single center, 741 inpatients with AF in the absence of structural heart disease prior to catheter ablation were retrospectively reviewed. Among them, 588 (79.4%) patients had paroxysmal AF. Subgroup analyses were performed in paroxysmal AF and persistent/permanent AF.

Results

MetS was found in 343 (46.3%) patients (200 males, 143 females); 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 components of the MetS were found in 59 (8.0%), 140 (18.9%), 199 (26.9%), 203 (27.4%), 103 (13.9%) and 37 (5.0%) patients, respectively. The prevalences of overweight/obesity, high blood pressure, high glucose level, high triglyceride level and low high density lipoproteins cholesterol level were 53.8%, 47.6%, 23.2%, 40.6% and 72.1%, respectively. The prevalence of MetS was not significantly different between the paroxysmal AF group and the persistent/permanent AF group (44.6% vs 52.9%, P=0.064). The five components of MetS except overweight/obesity (69.3% vs 49.8%, P <0.001) were not significantly different between the aforementioned two groups. The left atrium diameter increased with the sum of the MetS components. The left atrium diameter in the MetS group was significantly higher than that in the non-MetS group both in patients with paroxysmal AF and in patients with persistent/permanent AF.

Conclusions The prevalence of MetS in patients with AF prior to catheter ablation is high. Further study and prevention are needed.
Animal study for airway inflammation triggered by gastroesophageal reflux
Authors: LAI Yun-gang , WANG Zhong-gao , JI Feng , WU Ji-min , CHEN Xiu , LI Zhen , DONG Shu-kui
Published: January 2024

Background

Gastroesophageal reflux disease with extra-esophageal symptoms, especially those with respiratory distress was attracting more and more attention. The related mechanisms were still in controversy. The purpose of the work was to explore airway inflammation triggered by gastroesophageal reflux.

Methods

Sixteen Sprague-Dawley rats were used as study group and 9 as control. In the study group, a plastic extender with a trumpet-shaped distal end was inserted into the lower esophagus to dilate the cardia, the pylorus was ligated. One ml of 0.1 mol/L hydrochloric acid was injected into the stomach. While a simple laparotomy was performed for control animals. All animals from two groups were sacrificed 24 hours after operation. Then tracheotomy was carried and the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was collected in all animals. Cells in the fluid were counted and levels of interleukin (IL)-5, -6, -8 in it were measured.

Results

Compared with control group, the study group presented a neutrophil pattern of airway inflammation and an elevated concentration of IL-5, -6, -8 with no significant difference regarding eosinophil count.

Conclusion

The gastroesophageal reflux-triggered airway inflammation is characterized by a neutrophilic airway inflammation which differed from that caused by asthma, and enhanced levels of IL-5, -6 and -8, which are similar to that caused by asthma.