bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SPATIAL TRANSCRIPTOMICS WORKFLOW ENABLES DISTINCT TISSUE-SPECIFIC MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION OF NONUNION AND UNION BONE FRACTURES IN MICE
Authors: Giger N. , Schröder M. , Arens D. , Gens L. , Zeiter S. , Stoddart M. , Wehrle E.
Published: November 2024

Background

The molecular mechanisms underlying non-union bone fractures largely remain elusive. Recently, spatial transcriptomics approaches for musculoskeletal tissue samples have been developed requiring direct placement of histology sections on barcoded slides. However, Formalin-Fixed-Paraffin-Embedded (FFPE) bone sections have been associated with limited RNA quality and read depth compared to soft tissue. Here, we test spatial transcriptomics workflows based on transcriptomic probe transfer to characterize molecular features discriminating non-union and union bone fractures in mice.

Method

Histological sections (n=8) used for spatial transcriptomics (Visium CytAssist FFPE; 10x Genomics, n=4 on glass slides, n=4 on hydrogel-coated slides) were obtained from a fracture healing study in female 20-week-old C57BL/6J mice receiving either a femur osteotomy (0.7mm) or a segmental defect (2.4mm) (license 22/2022, Grisons CH). Sequence alignment and manual segmentation of different tissues (bone, defect region/callus, bone marrow, muscle) were performed using SpaceRanger and LoupeBrowser (10x Genomics). Differential gene expression was performed using DESeq2 (Seurat) followed by Gene-Set-Enrichment-Analysis (GSEA) of Gene Ontology (ClusterProfiler). Group comparison of quality measures was done using a Welch's t-test. Results are given as mean±standard deviation.

Result

The quality measures, mean counts, and genes per spot, were significantly ~10× higher for sections on hydrogel slides (counts: 4700±1796, genes: 2389±1170) compared to glass slides (counts: 463±415, genes: 250±223). In challenging tissues like cortical bone, we reached high counts+genes in comparison to published data.

Direct comparison of a non-union and union section showed a total of 432 differentially regulated genes, 538 in the defect region/callus. GSEA revealed differential regulation of pathways involved in muscle organ morphogenesis, cartilage development and endochondral ossification.

Conclusions

Optimized spatial transcriptomics workflows based on transcriptomic probe transfer enable for improved read depth in musculoskeletal tissue enabling the characterization of molecular features discriminating non-union and union bone fractures.

Acknowledgements

AO Foundation (AOTRAUMA), SNSF (PhD salary)
A SCOPING REVIEW TO INFORM CORE OUTCOME SET DEVELOPMENT: WHAT OUTCOMES HAVE BEEN REPORTED IN LITERATURE ON PATIENTS UNDERGOING LOWER-LIMB LENGTHENING SURGERY, AND HOW HAVE THEY BEEN MEASURED?
Authors: Yalcinkaya A. , Tirta M. , Rathleff M. S. , Iobst C. , Rahbek O. , Kold S.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The heterogeneity of outcomes used in the field of lower limb lengthening surgery (LLLS) affects our ability to synthesize evidence. This hampers robust systematic reviews and treatment recommendations for clinical practice. Ultimately this reduces the impact of research for both patients and healthcare professionals. This scoping review aimed to describe the outcomes and outcome measurement instruments (OMIs) used within the field of LLLS.

Method

A systematic literature search of WOS, Scopus, Embase, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Library identified all studies reporting outcomes in children and adults after LLLS. All outcomes and OMIs were extracted verbatim. An iterative process was used to group outcome terms under standardized outcome headings categorized using the COMET Taxonomy of Outcomes.

Result

Data saturation was achieved in 2020. A total of 142 studies were included between 2024-2020, reporting 2964 verbatim outcomes with 663 standardized outcome terms collapsed into 119 outcome headings (subdomains). A total of 29 patient-reported and 26 clinician-reported outcome instruments were identified. The most commonly reported outcome was “Lengthening amount”, reported in over 72% of the included studies, while “health-related quality of life” was measured in 16% and all life impact outcomes were reported in 19% of the included studies.

Conclusion

A large number of peer-reviewed publications are available, demonstrating that significant resources are being devoted to research on LLLS. However, reported outcomes for people with LLLS are heterogeneous, subject to reporting bias, and vary widely in the definitions and measurement tools used to collect them. Outcomes likely to be important to patients, such as quality of life and measures of physical function, have been neglected. This scoping review identifies a need to standardize outcomes and outcome measures reported on patients recovering from lower limb lengthening surgery; this can be addressed by creating a core set of outcomes.
Design of a dual-band common aperture confocal plane optical system
Authors: You Hongbo , Yang Jiaqiang , Li Jiangyong , Zhang Sai , Zhang Tian
Published: November 2024

In order to achieve high-quality imaging while simplifying the structure and reducing the size of the optical system, a miniature dual-disc folding reflection optical system was designed. A design approach incorporating reflector fitting is employed; the adjacent reflector is fitted to one mirror. The optimized optical system contains two mirrors, and the system length-to-focal-length ratio is 0.325, which significantly reduces the axial distance of the system. Furthermore, the engineering of the optical system was successfully achieved. The experimental results demonstrate that the captured images display consistent clarity, are free from distortion, and meet the specified design requirements.
Self-tuning architecture enabling bidirectional transceiver normalization and low differential latency
Authors: Xu Zhiguang , Fang Jinhui , Wang Xiang , Little Brent E. , Cheng Dong , Davidson Roy , Zhu Jingping
Published: November 2024

Due to having only one working wavelength, single wavelength bidirectional transmission combines the advantages of fiber saving and transceiver normalization. This is beneficial for reducing the CAPEX and OPEX of networks, and can also improve the time synchronization accuracy of mobile CRAN networks. However, the performance of single wavelength bidirectional transmission is invariably sensitive to backward reflected emission light. Frequency shifting and digital signal processing are typical approaches to eliminate this penalty, but it leads to higher cost and power consumption. In this paper, we first apply a self-tuning architecture and physical layer negotiation in bidirectional transceiver, to allow the transceiver to support two modes. Then a single-fiber bidirectional transmission can be setup by this normalized transceiver as single working wavelength but without performance penalty. Except wavelength, other performances of manufactured 25 G Baud PAM4 self-tuning bidirectional transceiver are compliant with IEEE 802.3cp 40 km ER specification. When the two working mode wavelength interval is 0.4 nm, the latency difference over 40 km is 250 ps, which is on the same order of magnitude as the delay difference in single wavelength bidirectional transmission.
Handwerk – aus Tradition innovativ: Der Mensch im Mittelpunkt der Digitalisierung
Authors: Helms Maximilian , Bosbach Julia , Finster Rebecca , Friesecke Maren , Beuchel Sebastian , Bartelt-Urich Karen , Meub Lukas , Thiem Silke , Umel Audris Pulanco , Jantos Louisa , Berger Hermann , Robra-Bissantz Susanne , Lattemann Christoph
Published: November 2024

In diesem Artikel werden die besonderen Herausforderungen und Treiber der Handwerksbranche in der digitalen Transformation (DT) dargestellt. In den letzten Jahrzehnten hat sich die DT schrittweise in nahezu allen Branchen etabliert und dabei beispielsweise Beziehungen, Interaktionen, Prozesse und Geschäftsmodelle neu gestaltet. Das Handwerk wird hier keine Ausnahme bilden. Obwohl die DT vielfältige Vorteile bietet, stellt ihre Integration ins Handwerk kleine und mittlere Unternehmen (KMU) vor große Herausforderungen. Fehlendes Verständnis, Unsicherheiten in der Einführung und ein Mangel an Vertrauen in die Sinnhaftigkeit der DT im Handwerk führen zu ihrer sehr langsamen Durchdringung. Damit bleiben Chancen ungenutzt ureigenste Interessen des Handwerks zu bedienen: Dienstleistungen für Kunden zu verbessern und Arbeitsbedingungen für Mitarbeitende gut zu gestalten. Dieser einleitende Artikel stellt den aktuellen Stand der DT im Handwerk vor und zeigt auf, dass im Handwerk trotz oder gerade wegen der Digitalisierung der Mensch im Mittelpunkt steht.
Ambitions and realities: Are Global Fund investments designed to achieve resilient and sustainable systems for health? Findings from the Global Fund Prospective Country Evaluation
Authors: Salisbury Nicole , Nawaz Saira , Abenaitwe Justine , Batzel Audrey , Grapa Emily , Casas Francisco Rios , Cerezo Virginia , Cooper Matthew , Duber Herbert C. , Gaye Ibrahima , Hernandez Bernardo , Kingongo Constant , Lush Louisiana , Macintyre Kate , Manika Eugene , Nagasha Shakilah N. , Ndoye Tidiane , Orozco Rosario , Osterman Allison , Shelley Katharine D.
Published: November 2024

Strengthening resilient and sustainable systems for health (RSSH) is central to the Global Fund’s strategy, however questions persist about the Global Fund’s role in the health systems strengthening space, and the extent to which investments are designed to achieve strengthening objectives, or just fill in gaps in the system. This paper reports on findings from the Prospective Country Evaluations (PCE), a multi-country multi-year evaluation of Global Fund support. We adapted a framework from Chee et al. (2013) to assess whether Global Fund investments were designed to strengthen or support the health system. Per this framework, ‘systems support’ refers to improvements in health systems functioning primarily driven by increases in inputs, whereas ‘systems strengthening’ refers to activities that drive changes in how the health system operates (often related to policies, regulations, governance structures, behavior change, and resource optimization). In the 2017 and 2019 funding cycles, we found that despite calls from the Global Fund to invest more strategically to strengthen health systems, a high proportion of RSSH funding was directed toward activities that support the health system. Factors underlying this pattern include limitations imposed by the three-year grant cycle, a lack of clear guidance on how to design strengthening investments, a persistent need for funding to address input gaps, and minimal feedback during the funding request process related to RSSH design. For the Global Fund, and indeed other global health initiatives, to contribute to sustained strengthening of health systems, is likely to require enhanced guidance and technical assistance, as well as improved measurement of outputs and outcomes.
Experience in implementing adolescent friendly health services in rural districts of Bangladesh
Authors: Shumi Farhana Shams , Sayem Abu Sadat Mohammad , Torsha Nawshin , Abdullah Abu Sayeed Md. , Aktar Moonmoon , Halim Abdul , Rahman A. K. M. Fazlur
Published: November 2024

The government of Bangladesh has initiated Adolescent Friendly Health Services (AFHS) at health facilities to improve access of adolescents to quality health care. This study aimed to document the AFHS program experiences and interventions implemented in four districts of Bangladesh. The study adopted review of literature, relevant project documents, research reports and analysis of secondary data on AFHS. The secondary data was extracted from the government District Health Information System (DHIS-2) and the HMIS (Health Management Information System) of Family planning department of the four study districts in Bangladesh from 2017 to 2019. Introduction of the AFHS program in Government health facilities had a positive impact on raising awareness among the community. It increased the proportion of adolescents receiving health services (from 6% in the pre-intervention period to 86% in the post-intervention period). The involvement of school authorities in disseminating AFHS program activities resulted in a 68.51% rise in adolescent referrals from schools. Publicity of the program and privacy of the service recipients are considered as enabling factors for the acceptance of AFHS. However, training of the service providers on comprehensive adolescent healthcare packages and expanding logistics support to the health facilities are needed for improvement of the overall service. The government of Bangladesh is committed to implementing adolescent friendly services, evident by adoption of national level strategy and guidelines through government health system, using existing resources with an additional financial support from development partners. The IEC (Information, Education and Communication) materials on AFHS, developed by different organizations were used for awareness program on AFHS. The healthcare providers were oriented/trained on AFHS, mental health, nutrition and counseling skills. Multi-sectoral collaboration at all levels: national to local level (schools, communities, adolescents club) were adopted for sustainability of this initiative.
Insights into cultural and compliance challenges in type 2 diabetes care: A qualitative study of Moroccan and Belgian patients in Belgium
Authors: Six Stefaan , Israel David , Bilsen Johan , Kharagjitsing Aan
Published: November 2024

Aims

To explore factors that may contribute to a possible reduced compliance in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with a migrant (i.e. North African) background living in a western society.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews with people with T2DM both of Moroccan and Belgian origin, recruited within the diabetes clinic of the University Hospital Brussel, Belgium. Data was analysed thematically using NVivo.

Results

Participants indicated they were adequately informed about T2DM, however results show a demand for culturally tailored preventive education for Moroccan participants. Both groups generally had good knowledge of a healthy lifestyle and what is expected after diagnosis, but considered maintaining healthy lifestyle and correct medication adherence, intensive. Participants mentioned a wide range of themes that affected their compliance, both positively and negatively. Perceived barriers were social issues, lack of motivation, insufficient support from the environment, stress, forgetfulness, winter conditions and COVID. Culturally shaped views on eating habits, illness, medication use and health were clear barriers in the Moroccan group.

Conclusion

Findings highlight the need for future in depth research into diabetes related knowledge within the Moroccan community living in Belgium (and similar other Western countries) whilst considering differences between generations of migrants, gender and level of education.
Surgical managements for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment: A network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yan Xinyu , Xu Meng , Su Fengjun
Published: November 2024

Background and objective

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) is the most common ophthalmic emergency threatening vision, with an incidence ranging from 6.3 to 17.9 per 100,000 people per year. However, optimal surgical management of RRD remains controversial. This network meta-analysis compared the efficacy and safety of different surgical options in patients with RRD.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and Web of science for randomized controlled trials (RCT) from inception to 24th September 2023. Frequentist network meta-analyses with the random-effects model was used to synthesize data. The risk of bias for the included RCTs was evaluated using the Cochrane tool for assessing risk of bias, and the certainty of evidence using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach. And we performed the network meta-analysis utilizing R 4.1.3 software and Stata 16SE.

Results

A total of 19 RCTs enrolled 2589 eyes were included. With high-to-very low certainty of evidence, compared with pneumatic retinopexy (PR), scleral buckling (SB) (odd ratio (OR) = 0.52, 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.30; 0.91]), pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) (OR = 2.35, 95% CI [1.32; 4.20]), PPV+SB (OR = 2.59, 95% CI [1.32; 5.09]) and PPV combined with phacomulsification (PCV) (OR = 7.72, 95% CI [1.07; 55.87]) were more effect in improving primary reattachment rate; for postoperative 6-month vision, SB was superior to PPV+SB (mean difference (MD) = 0.14, 95% CI [0.01; 0.27]). When compared with SB, PPV (OR = 5.27, 95% CI [3.13; 8.86]) and PPV+SB (OR = 10.12, 95% CI [4.31; 23.77]) shows a higher incidence of postoperative cataract progression. Compared to PR, the same is true for PPV (OR = 7.51, 95% CI [3.33; 16.91]) and PPV+SB (OR = 14.43, 95% CI [4.97; 41.93]).

Conclusions

PR appears to be associated with a lower rate of primary reattachment rate and postoperative cataract progression. In view of the small sample sizes of the included studies and the low certainty of evidence, these findings must be interpreted with caution. A large number of high-quality trials should be conducted to verify the effects of different surgical techniques in the future.
An evaluation of the Live Well Erie workforce development program, jumping off the benefits cliff: A protocol paper
Authors: St. Vil Christopher , Kim Wooksoo , Skrzypek Candra , Linjean Meschelle , Cannon Marie A. , Hall Jacqueline
Published: November 2024

While research has suggested that addressing multiple needs simultaneously may increase the chances for positive labor force outcomes, few studies have explored a multi-pronged approach to assist individuals with jumping off the benefits cliff. The purpose of the current study is to explore the potential of a Career Pathway program designed to supplement benefits for those who “jump off the benefits cliff.” This study will employ qualitative impact assessment protocol (QuIP) and observational methods to assess the implementation of the career pathway program through (1) observation, (2) focus groups with service providers and program stakeholders, and (3) semi-structured interviews with program participants. Qualitative thematic analysis will be employed to analyze responses disaggregated by the various service providers and program participants. Codes and themes generated from the analyses will be compared both within the groups of service providers and participants and between the groups.
Influence of irregular shelterwood treatments on intensity and severity after a large wildfire in lodgepole pine stands: A case study from the interior British Columbia
Authors: Liu Mingrui , Greene Gregory , Axelson Jodi , Coops Nicholas , Barbeito Ignacio , Roeser Dominik
Published: November 2024

Climate change has significantly impacted the wildfire regimes in lodgepole pine forests, resulting in prolonged fire seasons and altered fire behaviour. In North America, fire patterns have shifted towards more frequent and severe wildfires after a century of fire suppression. In response, silviculture practices in fire-prone areas should aim to restore diverse forest structures that are resistant or resilient to wildfires. In Western Canada, where forestry is a key industry, interest in seeking silvicultural solutions for promoting forest resilience to wildfires has increased following the devastating wildfire seasons between 2017 and 2023. Irregular shelterwood, a silvicultural system with a relatively short history of implementation in British Columbia, has been deployed in ecologically sensitive areas to promote structural heterogeneity and meet management goals for biodiversity and wildlife values. Although the impacts of irregular shelterwood on wildlife habitat and abundance have been well studied, the interaction between wildfire and the stand structure created by irregular shelterwood remains poorly understood. To understand the effectiveness of the irregular shelterwood in building wildfire resilience, we present a study of a lodgepole pine stand that was treated with irregular shelterwood and partially burned in a wildfire in 2017. This study collected ground fuel, canopy fuel, and tree data from four stand types (irregular shelterwood treated-burnt, treated-unburnt, untreated-burnt, and untreated-unburnt) and analyzed the difference in char height and fire-induced mortality between burnt and unburnt conditions, with irregular shelterwood treatment being a variable. The results demonstrated reduced wildfire effect in the irregular shelterwood stand in this region of British Columbia. This observation was made at a stage where the openings have not been colonized by regeneration. This case study provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of irregular shelterwood in mitigating wildfire risk, and proposes a potential silviculture solution to promote forest resilience to wildfire.
Influence of child structure and means of eldercare on equitable distribution of family assets
Authors: Chen Yangyang , Ji Hao
Published: November 2024

To provide a reference for the realization of children’s equal inheritance, this study examined the influence of child structure and means of eldercare on equitable family property distribution willingness. Using data from surveys of Chinese women’s social status, this study analyzes the impacts of child structure and means of eldercare on family property distribution, with the children’s surname choice and women’s status as moderating factors. The results indicate that a child structure in which the family consists of more girls than boys, a higher number of children, and the choice of family support for eldercare significantly inhibit the equal distribution of family assets. However, the weakening of traditional views significantly promotes the equal distribution of household assets. These findings remain robust after endogenous and robustness tests. Moreover, the study finds that the impact of the structure of children and eldercare methods varied across different age groups, household registration attributes, and genders. Research on the willingness to distribute household wealth aids in understanding the effects and differences brought about by the structure of children and eldercare methods under current traditional cultural contexts, thereby promoting a more equitable distribution of household wealth.
Platinum retention in plasma, urine, and normal colonic mucosa in cisplatin-treated testicular cancer survivors
Authors: Breekveldt Emilie C. H. , Ykema Berbel L. M. , Huitema Alwin D. R. , Gietema Jourik A. , Beijnen Jos H. , Snaebjornsson Petur , Schaapveld Michael , van Leeuwen Flora E. , Rosing Hilde , van Leerdam Monique E. ,   on behalf of the CATCHER study working group
Published: November 2024

Testicular cancer survivors (TCS) treated with platinum-based chemotherapy have increased cancer risk. Platinum retention in healthy tissue may contribute to carcinogenesis. We assessed total platinum concentrations in plasma, urine, and normal colonic mucosa samples in TCS treated with cisplatin. From the total TCS treated with ≥3 cycles cisplatin who participated in a colonoscopy-screening study in four Dutch hospitals (n = 154), plasma (n = 131) and urine (n = 115) samples were collected. During colonoscopy, 60 biopsies of normal colonic mucosa (two samples each per 30 randomly selected patients undergoing colonoscopy) were obtained. Samples were analyzed for total platinum concentrations using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and compared with controls (plasma: 10, urine: 3, normal colonic mucosa: 9). The median age at colonoscopy was 50 years (interquartile range (IQR): 43–57) and the median time since treatment was 20 years (IQR:16–26). Median platinum concentrations in plasma (38 pg/mL; IQR: 24–61 pg/mL) and urine (376 pg/mL; IQR: 208–698 pg/mL) remained elevated in TCS up to 40 years post-treatment and were higher than in controls (all controls were below limits of detection [plasma: 25 pg/mL, urine: 6 pg/mL]). The median platinum concentration in normal colonic mucosa was 0.58 pg/mg (IQR: 0.33–1.59 pg/mg) in the transverse and 0.51 pg/mg (IQR:0.26–1.25 pg/mg) in the descending colon. Cisplatin treatment is associated with long-term retention of platinum in various patient sample types. This might increase cancer risk by causing somatic mutations, potentially explaining the elevated risk of second malignant neoplasms in TCS. The long-term effects of platinum retention should be monitored to understand carcinogenesis and to provide guidelines for early second cancer detection.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.Gov: NCT04180033.
The Role of Gastroesophageal Reflux in Airway Inflammation
Authors: Chan Walter W. , Sharma Nirmal , Gyawali C. Prakash
Published: November 2024

Gastroesophageal reflux disease occurs when the barrier at the esophagogastric junction is weakened, allowing for transient relaxations of the lower esophageal sphincter or disruption of the esophagogastric junction. This leads to the refluxate traveling up the esophagus, and potentially into the pharynx, where it can be aspirated into the airway. The refluxate can cause a range of symptoms, including sore throat, coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath, which may occur with or without visible airway inflammation. Both experimental and clinical studies have shown that aspirated refluxate can directly damage the airway lining and trigger immune responses that contribute to airway injury and inflammation. While traditional diagnostic tests for gastroesophageal reflux disease can identify abnormal reflux patterns, there is a need for more specific methods to predict airway inflammation or therapeutic outcomes related to reflux aspiration.
Tumor Seeding With Needle Biopsy of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Systematic Review
Authors: Nie Chunpeng , Vaska Marcus , Wong Jason K. , Bathe Oliver F. , Przybojewski Stefan , Burak Kelly W. , Tang Patricia A. , Congly Stephen E.
Published: November 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Biopsy of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) may help with selecting appropriate chemotherapy with inconclusive imaging; concern about potential seeding may limit its use.

METHODS:

A systematic review was conducted to assess the risk of tumor seeding with biopsy of HCC excluding nonliver cancers or seeding after interventions.

RESULTS:

A total of 2,339 unique abstracts were identified; 37 studies were included in the final analysis. The rate of tumor seeding was 0.62% (range 0%–7.77%) in 13,959 biopsies performed. The average reported median lengths of follow-up was 35.8 months (range 10.5–60 months).

DISCUSSION:

Overall, the risk of tumor seeding with biopsy of HCC is low.
Facile Synthesis of Glutathione-Copper Nanoparticles for 3-Monochloropropanediol Colorimetric Detection
Authors: Faramitha Yora , Dimawarnita Firda , Kresnawati Irma , Ainun Azhar Muhammad Hanif , Aqoma Havid , Ferdiansyah Alfian , Nugraha Adam Febriyanto
Published: November 2024

3-Monochloropropanediol (MCPD) is a carcinogen compound commonly found in refined cooking oil, including palm oil. The high risk of human intoxication increases the importance of 3-MCPD detection. This study proposes the optimum chemical reduction synthesis condition of colloidal copper nanoparticles functioned by L-glutathione (GSH-Cu NPs) as an alternative accessible 3-MCPD detector used in the colorimetric method. The volume of copper source, capping agent, and reducing agent were optimized to find the optimum synthesis formula. 3.6 mL of 3 mM CuCl2, 25 µL of 20 mM L-glutathione (GSH), and 150 µL hydrazine hydrate were found to be the best combination to form GSH-Cu NPs; the combination made the sharpest UV-Vis absorption peak. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrometry measurement confirmed the reaction and encapsulation of Cu NPs with GSH. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Particle Size Analyzer (PSA) observations revealed the quasi-spherical morphology of the nanoparticles, with an average size of 51.3 nm. The sample withstood 1:1 dilution with deionized water and maintained its dispersion and distribution after 10 days. The fabricated GSH-Cu NPs were able to detect 3-MCPD until 50 ppm. This study aimed to provide insight into the synthesis of copper nanoparticles as non-precious metals for the application of 3-MCPD colorimetric detection.
Reindeer as Draught Animals in Tourism: Bringing Past Traditions into Modern Practices
Authors: Soppela Päivi , Kynkäänniemi Sanna-Mari , Wallén Henri , Salmi Anna-Kaisa
Published: November 2024

Driving with reindeer is an old tradition in northern Fennoscandia that became almost extinct in the last century but that has increased in the past few decades along with tourism. This study investigates the current use of draught reindeer in Lapland, identifies changes since the mid-1900s, and explores the human-reindeer relationship related to this practice, including draught training. We conducted interviews and participatory research with 15 reindeer herders who trained draught reindeer for tourism and competitive racing in northern Finland. Reindeer training today follows similar steps to those followed in the last century, but today the draught training starts earlier, with calves in their first autumn, and takes longer, usually three to four winters. The reindeer are carefully chosen, and their training and roles are more specified than in the past. Mutual trust, communication, and learning play essential roles in the establishment of human-reindeer relationships and collaboration. Herders treat reindeer as individuals and co-actors and take into account their interests and well-being. Driving practice was restarted in the 1970s because of tourism. In the early years of tourism, when draught reindeer were not available for this, racing reindeer were used for sledging; this contributed to the revival of the practice. We conclude that draught reindeer training and use in tourism is reviving old draught-reindeer culture and passing it forward, albeit in a new form. It combines reindeer herders’ traditional knowledge with modern requirements, deepens the herder-reindeer relationship, and supports reindeer herding as a livelihood.
Seasonal Variability of Ice Motion for Hubbard and Valerie Glaciers, Alaska
Authors: Bayer Courtney , Van Wychen Wesley , Wendleder Anna , Main Brittany
Published: November 2024

Hubbard Glacier is a large fast-flowing tidewater-terminating glacier in the St. Elias Mountains and is connected at its terminus to Valerie Glacier. Although Hubbard Glacier has been shown to experience large intra-annual velocity changes and a long-term deceleration, previous seasonality studies have had limited timescale without a dense record of motion. Valerie Glacier’s variability has also been understudied, with only one study reporting its seasonal behaviour. The goal of this study was to combine ITS_LIVE, RADARSAT-2, RADARSAT Constellation Mission, and TerraSAR-X/TanDEM-X derived velocity data to create the densest record of motion ever constructed for Hubbard and Valerie glaciers from July 2013-April 2022 in order to explore seasonal velocity variability of both glaciers. Air temperature (NCEP-NCAR Reanalysis) was used to estimate surface melt on the glaciers, which was explored as a potential driver for seasonal velocity changes. Valerie Glacier had a seasonal pattern of fast flow in May, with minimum flow between August-November before accelerating again. Hubbard Glacier displayed a unique seasonal pattern that has not been previously observed on this glacier, with two periods of fast motion: one in May and one in December-February. It is inferred that the spring peaks and late summer/fall minimums on both glaciers are due to meltwater reaching the glacier bed and influencing the subglacial hydrology. The cause of the winter peak and slight velocity drop before the spring peak on Hubbard Glacier has not been determined and should be a topic for future studies, although it is hypothesized to influenced by its geometry.
التحكيم وأثره في حلّ نزاعات عقود النفط
Authors: Shaikhah Rebwar J.
Published: November 2024

تعد العقود النفطية من أهم أنواع العقود الاستثمارية التي لها علاقة وثيقة باقتصاد الدولة وبنيتها التحتية، لذلك تحرص الدول النفطية على اتخاذ إجراءات كفيلة في هذا المجال من أجل ضمان استغلالها لتحقيق الأهداف المرجوة منها... و لايمكن التشكيك في حدوث خلافات بين الشركة والدولة المستضيفة، أساسها تضارب مصالحهما أثناء تنفيذ بنود العقد،مما يقتضي البحث عن وسائل كفيلة لحلّ النزاع لضمان حماية حقوق الأطراف. ويحظى التحكيم ـ كوسيلة لحل النزاعات على اختلاف أنواعها ـ بأهمية بالغة، إذ تلجأ اليه الأطراف المتنازعة كوسيلة بديلة للقضاء في حلّ نزاعاتها. وتزداد هذه الأهمية يوماً بعد يوم؛ وذلك نظراً لاتّساع العلاقات التجارية بين الدول والشركات متعددة الجنسيات، وتزامناً مع ذلك فإنّه من البديهي أن تزداد النزاعات التجارية بينها، الأمر الذي أدّى إلى تزايد أهمية التحكيم وانتشار مراكز وهيئات له على المستوى الوطني و الإقليمي والدولي، وكذلك قام العديد من الدول بتنظيم أحكام التحكيم وجعلها جزءاً من نظامها القانوني سواءً عن طريق وضع قانون مستقل بذاته،أو عن طريق إدراجه ضمن قوانين أخرى. وتتضاعف هذه الأهمية بالنسبة للنزاعات الناشئة عن عقود الاستثمار النفطية؛ وذلك للعديد من المزايا التي يحظى بها بهذا الشأن، مما جعلته من أنجع وسائل لحل النزاعات الناشئة عن تلك العقود، لما له من مزايا تجعله الأكثر إقبالاً لتسوية النزاعات الناجمة عن العقود النفطية.وبناء على ذلك نجد أن غالبية تلك العقود تنصُّ على لجوء الطرفين إلى التحكيم عند حدوث النزاع على بنود العقد، بل ويكاد لا يخلو أي عقد من العقود النفطية على نصّ يمنح حق الأطراف المتنازعة اللجوء الى التحكيم لحل نزاعاتها التي قد تحدث أثناء تنفيذ بنود العقد.
España ha estado en su sitio
Authors: San Miguel Pérez Enrique
Published: November 2024

En Guerra en España, decía Juan Ramón Jiménez que "mientras el hombre ha valido en el mundo, como hombre, España ha estado en su sitio". España es un proyecto nacional, es decir, constitucional, democrático y parlamentario, que debe su existencia a la historia. A partir de la institución de la Junta para Ampliación de Estudios e Investigaciones Científicas, que desde su fundación en 1907 presidió Santiago Ramón y Cajal, cesando en el ejercicio únicamente con su propio fallecimiento en 1934, y hasta el golpe de Estado y comienzo de la Guerra Civil en 1936, España asistió al compromiso hasta sus últimas consecuencias, el testimonio público, la adhesión cívica, y la ilusión apasionada de los constructores del Estado de Derecho, y tanto en el trabajo parlamentario como en la actividad académica, en todas las formas de la creación plástica y de la militancia ciudadana. En una nación, decía el profesor y diplomático madrileño José María Semprún Gurrea, se puede y se debe vivir y morir con libertad y dignidad. Y, por una nación, se asumen sacrificios. Pero esta adhesión racional no sólo no excluye, sino que integra, el sentimiento del amor humano incondicional. El proyecto nacional es democrático. Pero es también un ejercicio de la voluntad. Ese proyecto de Estado de Derecho, meditado, madurado, respaldado por los más grandes pensadores de las más prodigiosas y vertiginosas décadas en la historia de las formas de creación escrita españolas, por las mujeres y por los hombres de 1868, 1898, 1914 y 1927, era la expresión de un debate social muy amplio, de enorme recorrido, competencia y cualificación. Un debate tan plural como enriquecedor. Este libro quiere contribuir a su conocimiento, al de sus protagonistas, y al examen de la vigencia de sus propuestas.
Pembuatan Bioetanol dari Limbah Kulit Nanas untuk Pencampuran Pertalite menjadi Bahan Bakar Alternatif (Gasohol)
Authors: Ihtifazhuddin Farhan , Yerizam Muhammad , Yuliati Selastia
Published: November 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan memanfaatkan limbah kulit nanas untuk pembuatan bioetanol dan campurannya dengan bahan bakar Pertalite, menghasilkan bahan bakar alternatif yang lebih ramah lingkungan. Proses produksi bioetanol meliputi hidrolisis, fermentasi, distilasi, dan adsorpsi, dengan ragi Saccharomyces cerevisiae untuk memfermentasi gula dalam kulit nanas menjadi etanol dengan kadar 59,62% dari proses fermentasi 5 hari dengan 4% ragi, 0,5% urea, 0,5% NPK. Bioetanol kemudian dicampurkan dengan Pertalite dalam komposisi E5 hingga E25, menurunkan titik nyala campuran dari 29,8°C (E5) ke 28,0°C (E25), meningkatkan densitas dari 0,7239 gr/cm3 (E5) ke 0,7250 gr/cm3 (E25) dan viskositas dari 0,41 cSt (E5) ke 0,49 cSt (E25), namun angka oktan (RON) cenderung stabil pada 91,4- 95,6. Tujuan penelitian adalah menghasilkan bioetanol sesuai SNI 7390:2012, mendapatkan parameter optimal pencampuran bioetanol-Pertalite, dan mencapai kualitas Gasohol standar RON Pertalite. Hasilnya, kadar bioetanol kurang mendekati SNI 99,5%, campuran bioetanol-Pertalite meningkatkan beberapa parameter namun menurunkan titik nyala, dan campuran E25 memenuhi standar RON 95,6 untuk Pertalite.
La integración del mercado bursátil latinoamericano: Una revisión sistemática de la literatura
Authors: Cardona Montoya Juan Camilo
Published: November 2024

Este estudio tiene por objetivo caracterizar las principales temáticas de investigación que se han abordado en torno   al Mercado Integrado Latinoamericano(MILA) y, a partir de esto, proponer futuras rutas de  estudio. Para ello, fueron revisados 85 artículos relacionados con este campo, publicados entre 2008 y 2022 en revistas indexadas en Scopus, WOS y Google Académico. Los resultados obtenidos sugieren que la investigación sobre el MILA se centró en varios atributos de los mercados financieros y de los reportes corporativos tras el acuerdo de integración, los cuales, junto a los estudios exploratorios sobre la eficiencia transaccional de la plataforma, se seguirán fortaleciendo a partir de una eventual incorporación de nuevos miembros a este mercado y de la fusión de las bolsas de valores de Chile, Colombia y Perú para dar origen al Nuam Exchange.
Gender Balance to The Rescue: Examining The Relationship Between Gender Diversity and Financial Distress in Corporate Settings
Authors: Siagian Valentine
Published: November 2024

This study explores the correlation between gender diversity in corporate leadership and financial distress in the business sector. The research aims to understand the role of gender balance in corporate stability and resilience, hypothesizing a potential inverse relationship with financial distress. The methodology includes a purposive sampling of firms listed on the Indonesia Stock Market, utilizing logistic regression models and analysis. Results suggest that firms with a higher proportion of women in top leadership positions experience fewer instances of financial distress and demonstrate greater corporate stability. The findings point towards the efficacy of gender-balanced leadership teams in preventing financial turmoil, advancing our understanding of diversity's role in enhancing organizational sustainability.
Foreign Direct Investment and Economic Growth in the Pacific Alliance countries
Authors: Quiguanas Chila Blademir , Rojas Velasquez Libardo
Published: November 2024

This article empirically analyzed the relationship between foreign direct investment (FDI) and economic growth (EG) in the Pacific Alliance countries. Quarterly data was used for each variable, and unit root tests, cointegration, and causality tests were applied. Additionally, a multivariate error correction model and impulse response functions were estimated. The main hypotheses were that FDI promotes the economic growth of the recipient countries and that economic growth contributes to attracting higher FDI flows. The results showed that in some countries, foreign investment promoted economic growth and, in turn, that EG contributed to attracting higher investment flows. However, in other cases, this relationship did not hold. These results suggest that factors such as infrastructure, financial market development, macroeconomic stability, institutional quality, and human capital are determinants of maximizing the benefits of FDI.
Christian Knorr von Rosenroth’s Translation of a Lurianic Dissertation:

Liber Druschim, or the

Dissertation on Two Inquiries of the Kabbalists
Authors: Rivera Lusdemar Jacquez
Published: November 2024

The present text analyzes two Hebrew copies of a Lurianic dissertation used by Christian Knorr von Rosenroth for the Latin translation printed in 1677 in Kabbala denudata as Tractatus I. Liber Druschim. This article first identifies the Hebrew source for Knorr von Rosenroth’s translation and offers new insights into his style and method of translation, contributing to a better understanding of Rosenroth’s approach to kabbalistic tradition. Secondly, this article contributes to the history of the transmission of Lurianic manuscripts and posits Sulzbach as an important center for the circulation and translation of kabbalistic knowledge.
Interpretation, Rewriting, and Editing: The Copyists of
Sefer ha-Temunah
in Ashkenaz
Authors: Goldschmidt Roee
Published: November 2024

The article discusses Sefer ha-Temunah, a key kabbalistic text on the twenty-two letters of the Torah, and emphasizes the need for philological research to address its textual challenges and variations. The article explores the editing practices of early modern Ashkenazi kabbalistic copyists and the influence of Koretz printing house editors on the text’s history and reception. Finally, this article underscores the dynamic nature of kabbalistic literatures and its continuous evolution through scholarly and editorial efforts.
Advancing culturally relevant pedagogy in college chemistry
Authors: Cooper Destinee J. , Voigt Matthew
Published: November 2024

There is increasing emphasis on incorporating complex global challenges such as sustainable development and environmental justice in college chemistry instruction. Addressing these issues requires a community of engaged citizens who are empowered to enact change in their communities and value diverse perspectives. Culturally relevant pedagogy (CRP) is a framework that may support college chemistry faculty in integrating these social justice aims while also advancing equity within their own classrooms. However, college chemistry instructors’ knowledge and implementation of CRP remains understudied. This research explores how college chemistry instructors (n = 6) from different institutions across the United States describe and operationalize CRP. Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews indicates that the instructors in this study are flexible in their teaching approach, cultivate a classroom community of collaboration and belonging, and affirm that all students can be successful in chemistry. These practices are foundational elements of CRP, but they must also be coupled with knowledge of students’ cultural backgrounds and awareness of sociopolitical issues that impact students. A framework that considers the context of college chemistry is proposed to support instructors’ adoption of all of the tenets of CRP. Future work will further develop and examine the use of our framework for chemistry faculty development.
Transition space: navigating dilemmas between mainstream and minority language classrooms
Authors: Kosner Lukas Espenes
Published: November 2024

From policymaking to classroom practices, educational language policy implementation is a complex process filled with a cacophony of voices. This article examines policy implementation as it unfolds in micro-level transitions between mainstream classrooms and lessons in Sámi, Kven, or Finnish as a second language (SKF) in Norway. In such situations, SKF pupils need to leave their mainstream classes to receive their language instruction. To examine these transitions, I draw primarily from ethnographic data (e.g., classroom observations and semi-structured interviews) collected over several months in public schools in a town in Northern Norway. The findings suggest that organizational circumstances construct an in-between space, which I refer to as transition space, in which classroom actors can or need to negotiate and make choices about which of the theoretically co-available classes/activities will be chosen at which times. Such choices involve dilemmas and consequences on different scales. In this study, (1) I demonstrate how (non)movements between mainstream and SKF classes are made in time and space, and (2) I propose transition space as a new conceptualization for researching micro-level transitions in educational settings.
Macroeconomic and Fiscal Consequences of Climate Change in Latin America and the Caribbean
Authors: Titelman Daniel , Hanni Michael , Pérez Benítez Noel
Published: November 2024

Climate change poses a significant challenge for Latin America and the Caribbean, exposing its vulnerabilities to hydrometeorological shifts and rising temperatures that threaten economic stability. We examine the macroeconomic consequences of climate change through the lens of six distinctive country cases. Our results suggest that compensating for the drag on economic growth caused by climate change would require public and private investments of 5.3 % of GDP to 10.9 % of GDP per year. Faced with existing fiscal constraints and restrictive financial conditions, we explore the macrofiscal implications of an investment push in line with the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Our results suggest that front-loaded public adaptation investments would improve growth over the medium term, although not fully compensating for climate losses. However, resulting public debt trajectories would become untenable in most countries. We find that a key factor for a fiscally sustainable NDC investment push is the financial costs that countries face when issuing sovereign debt. Debt sustainability could be significantly improved if countries could finance their climate investments at lower cost or concessional terms.
About the supports in the Fredholm convolution
Authors: Voronin Anatoly Fedorovich
Published: November 2024

This paper considers homogeneous equation of convolution type of the first kind on a finite interval.
An analogue of the well-known Titchmarsh theorem on supports in convolution is obtained. The results of the work were obtained under the condition that the kernel function in the integral operator is equal to zero in the neighborhood of zero.
Numerical analysis on impedance characteristics of dual wavelength quantum cascade lasers
Authors: Panchapakesan Ashok , M. Ganesh Madhan
Published: November 2024

This article reports the computation of impedance in dual wavelength quantum cascade lasers (DW-QCLs) for the first time. The DW-QCL operates at two wavelengths 10.5 μm and 8.9 μm and contains 48 stages. The injected current decides the single mode (emission at 10.5 μm) or bi-mode (emission at both wavelengths) lasing characteristics of the device. The device exhibits a higher impedance till Ith
(1) since lasing has not begun and sharply reduces from 18.8 Ω (at 0.5 Ith
(1)) to 1.2 Ω at Ith
(1) at dc conditions. Under pre-threshold lasing region, the device exhibits a larger impedance and is inductive in nature. The maximum magnitude of impedance in this region is 18.82 Ω when the device is injected with 0.5Ith
(1) and it reduces to 10.45 Ω at 0.9Ith
(1). In the lasing region (single and bi-mode), it is clearly visible that there are regions of capacitive reactance and inductive reactance occurring at different bands. The maximum impedance offered by the device over a wide range of frequencies is computed for different modes of operation. The analytical part to derive the equation of impedance of the DW-QCL involves the rate equations in frequency domain, the apparent substitution and simplification thereafter. The computation of impedance is necessary for matching the laser driver with the DW-QCL for efficient operation at higher operating frequencies.