bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aesthetic Verdicts
Authors: Kellam Amy
Published: July 2024

This article examines the landmark 1878 defamation case of Whistler v Ruskin, a pivotal legal battle that underscored the complexities of adjudicating art criticism under defamation law. The trial arose from John Ruskin’s scathing critique of James McNeill Whistler’s work, which led Whistler to sue for libel, seeking validation not just of his art but of his artistic philosophy. Despite the public fascination and Whistler’s tactical use of the trial as a platform for self-promotion, the jury’s award—a derisory farthing—hinted at their view of the lawsuit as frivolous. This case emphasizes the intrinsic challenge of legal systems grappling with subjective art valuation and critiques, the evolving norms of defamation, and the implications for the freedom of speech. While Whistler nominally won, the repercussions for both men were significant, affecting their finances, reputations and positions within the art world, and the trial’s legacy continues to inform the discourse around art, law and cultural value.
Keywords: James McNeill Whistler; John Ruskin; Victorian libel law; defamation; art criticism; aesthetics; 19th-century British art; fair comment.
Time Course of Cerebral Hypoperfusion-Induced Neurodegenerative Changes in the Cortex of Male and Female Rats
Authors: Stanojlović M. , Horvat A. , Guševac I. , Grković I. , Mitrović N. , Buzadžić I. , Drakulić Dunja
Published: July 2024

To study time-dependent and gender-specific intracellular and biochemical mechanisms that lead to neurodegeneration due to moderate but persistent reduction of cerebral blood flow, adult male and female Wistar rats were divided into two main groups – controls that underwent sham operation and animals subjected to permanent bilateral occlusion of common carotid arteries. Animals were sacrificed 3, 7 or 90 days following the insult. Expression of several apoptotic proteins in synaptic fractions along with Fluoro-Jade B staining and DNA fragmentation assay were used to estimate the apoptotic processes and potential neurodegeneration in cerebral cortex. Data suggest a time-specific increase of Bax as well as timeand gender-associated downregulation in protein expression of Bcl-2, up-regulation of procaspase 3, accompanied with increased cleavage of procaspase 3 and PARP in synaptic terminals. Furthermore, time- but not gender-specific neurodegeneration was observed. Our findings support the concept of timeand gender-associated response to permanent bilateral occlusion of common carotid arteries, which would enable better understanding of the mechanisms underlying cerebral hypoperfusion.
Differential Expression of Tripartite Motif-Containing Family in Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts in Response to Porcine Endogenous Retrovirus Infection
Authors: Kimsa Malgorzata W. , Strzalka-Mrozik B. , Kimsa M. C. , Mazurek U. , Kruszniewska-Rajs C. , Gola J. , Adamska J. , Twardoch M.
Published: July 2024

Antiretroviral restriction factors may play an essential role in the safety of xenotransplantation. Therefore, the present study focused on investigation of the changes in the tripartite motif-containing family (TRIM) gene expression in normal human dermal fibroblasts with and without lipopolysaccharide stimulation in response to porcine endogenous retrovirus infection. Analysis of the expression profile of TRIMs was performed using oligonucleotide microarrays and QRT-PCR. Nine (TRIM1, TRIM2, TRIM5, TRIM14, TRIM16, TRIM18, TRIM22, TRIM27 and TRIM31) statistically significantly differentially expressed genes were found (P < 0.05, one-way ANOVA). In conclusion, comprehensive analysis of retroviral restriction factor gene expression in human dermal fibroblasts before and after porcine endogenous retrovirus infection with and without LPS stimulation may suggest association of the selected TRIMs with antiretroviral activity.
National Democracy and Nazism. The Asymmetry of Relations
Authors: Stachowiak Paweł
Published: July 2024

The relationship between Polish nationalism and fascism and National Socialism has been the subject of numerous publications, especially those that are part of the Polish scientific literature. There is a peculiar asymmetry embedded in this relationship. During the interwar period and nowadays, this subject has been reflected on rather on the Polish side rather than the German side. The author attempts to answer a question about reasons for this asymmetry. In the 1930s, German interest in Polish nationalism was limited. Publications dealing specifically with Eastern European issues were the only to designate more space and attention to the topic. The publications, however, almost completely ignored official NSDAP sources. The shape and evolution of the national camp in Poland focused on a few issues only and it was a domain of a few authors whose names appear in various periodicals. In Germany, a hypothetical explanation for this phenomenon is based on fundamental contradictions that divided the Polish and German forms of nationalism at the time, namely the absence of the biological-racial dimension in the Polish national ideology and its strong connection with Catholicism. The practical absence of the Polish national movement in German articles of the 1930s might be attributed to the doctrine and racist objectives of National Socialism.
Preventing loss of sirt1 lowers mitochondrial oxidative stress and preserves C2C12 myotube diameter in an in vitro model of cancer cachexia
Authors: Hain Brian A. , Kimball Scot R. , Waning David L.
Published: July 2024

Cancer cachexia is a multifactorial syndrome associated with advanced cancer that contributes to mortality. Cachexia is characterized by loss of body weight and muscle atrophy. Increased skeletal muscle mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a contributing factor to loss of muscle mass in cachectic patients. Mice inoculated with Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells lose weight, muscle mass, and have lower muscle sirtuin‐1 (sirt1) expression. Nicotinic acid (NA) is a precursor to nicotinamide dinucleotide (NAD+) which is exhausted in cachectic muscle and is a direct activator of sirt1. Mice lost body and muscle weight and exhibited reduced skeletal muscle sirt1 expression after inoculation with LLC cells. C2C12 myotubes treated with LLC‐conditioned media (LCM) had lower myotube diameter. We treated C2C12 myotubes with LCM for 24 h with or without NA for 24 h. C2C12 myotubes treated with NA maintained myotube diameter, sirt1 expression, and had lower mitochondrial superoxide. We then used a sirt1‐specific small molecule activator SRT1720 to increase sirt1 activity. C2C12 myotubes treated with SRT1720 maintained myotube diameter, prevented loss of sirt1 expression, and attenuated mitochondrial superoxide production. Our data provides evidence that NA may be beneficial in combating cancer cachexia by maintaining sirt1 expression and decreasing mitochondrial superoxide production.
Inverse mean curvature flow and Ricci-pinched three-manifolds
Authors: Huisken Gerhard , Koerber Thomas
Published: July 2024

Let

(
M
,
g
)

(M,g)

be a noncompact, connected, complete Riemannian three-manifold with nonnegative Ricci curvature satisfying

Ric
≥

ε
⁢

tr
⁡

(
Ric
)

⁢
g

\mathrm{Ric}\geq\varepsilon\operatorname{tr}(\mathrm{Ric})g

for some

ε
>
0

\varepsilon>0

.
In this note, we give a new proof based on inverse mean curvature flow that

(
M
,
g
)

(M,g)

is either flat or has non-Euclidean volume growth.
In conjunction with the work of J. Lott [On 3-manifolds with pointwise pinched nonnegative Ricci curvature, Math. Ann.
388 (2024), 3, 2787–2806] and of M.-C. Lee and P. Topping [Three-manifolds with non-negatively pinched Ricci curvature, preprint (2022), https://arxiv.org/abs/2204.00504], this gives an alternative proof of a conjecture of R. Hamilton recently proven by A. Deruelle, F. Schulze, and M. Simon [Initial stability estimates for Ricci flow and three dimensional Ricci-pinched manifolds, preprint (2022), https://arxiv.org/abs/2203.15313] using Ricci flow.
External Quality Assessment (EQA) scheme for serological diagnostic test for SARS-CoV-2 detection in Sicily Region (Italy), in the period 2020–2022
Authors: Di Gaudio Francesca , Brunacci Giuseppina , Cucina Annamaria , Giaccone Vita , Raso Maria , Lundari Anna , Cancilleri Antonio , Buffa Vito , Russo Eleonora , Vasto Sonya , La Rocca Mario , Indelicato Sergio
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Since December 2019, worldwide public health has been exposed to a severe acute respiratory syndrome caused by Coronavirus-2. Serological testing is necessary for retrospective assessment of seroprevalence rates, and the determination of vaccine response and duration of immunity. For this reason, it was necessary to introduce a panel of tests able to identify and quantify Covid-19 antibodies.

Methods

As a Regional Reference Centre, the CRQ Laboratory (Regional Laboratory for the Quality Control) developed and conducted an External Quality Assessment (EQA) panel of assays, to evaluate the quality of various methods, that were used by 288 Sicilian laboratories, previously authorized on behalf of the Public Health Service.

Results

The performance test was based on pooled samples with different levels of concentration of antibodies. 97 , 98, and 95 % of the participating laboratories tested all samples correctly in 2020, 2021, and 2022 respectively. The best performance was observed in the test of total Ig. The general performance of laboratories improved over the years.

Conclusions

The incorrect diagnosis had and could still have important implications on vaccination cycles. Only through the effort of laboratory professionals, and the extension of the EQA scheme, a better harmonization of methods, protocols, and thus results, to guarantee a better healthcare system, will be possible.
Effect of acidic vaginal pH on the efficacy of dinoprostone (PGE2) vaginal tablet for labor induction in full term pregnant women: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Panagiotopoulos Michail , Pergialiotis Vasilios , Antsaklis Panagiotis , Theodora Marianna , Sindos Michail , Daskalaki Maria-Anastasia , Koutroumanis Pelopidas , Daskalakis George
Published: July 2024

Objectives

There is controversial evidence that acidification of vaginal pH may increase the efficacy of vaginal prostaglandins in labor induction, with research being mainly focused on misoprostol. This study aims to evaluate the impact of this intervention on the progress of labor induction with dinoprostone (PGE2) vaginal tablet.

Methods

This double-blind, parallel-group, randomized study was conducted between October 2021 and December 2022 at Alexandra General Hospital, Athens, Greece. A total of 230 women with singleton, full term pregnancy that were scheduled for labor induction were randomly divided into two groups: Group A, who received acidic vaginal wash (5 % acetic acid) and Group B, who received a normal saline vaginal wash. Afterwards, participants received a vaginal tablet of 3 mg dinoprostone every 6 h (maximum two doses).

Results

There were no statistically significant differences in mode of delivery, duration of different labor stages, Bishop score changes and possible complications. Participants in the acidification group needed less often labor augmentation with oxytocin and epidural anesthesia (p=0.03).

Conclusions

Vaginal acidification seems to have no effect on the efficacy of the dinoprostone vaginal tablet. Even though it may reduce the need for oxytocin augmentation, there is no apparent benefit on clinical outcomes, such as reduction in cesarean section rates or shorter labor duration. Future research is necessary in order to validate these findings.
Decoding French equivalents of the English present perfect: evidence from parallel corpora of parliamentary documents
Authors: Raoprasert Thatchanon , Thumvichit Athip
Published: July 2024

Scholars have yet to establish a consensus regarding French equivalents of the English present perfect (PP). This study investigates the French equivalents of the PP through the lens of parallel corpora. Although the passé composé is commonly considered the French equivalent, no singular tense in French entirely mirrors the PP. This paper challenges this assumption by suggesting other French forms as viable correspondences, including the présent de l’indicatif, the passé récent, the futur antérieur, and the imparfait. Leveraging the benefits of parallel corpora for crosslinguistic analysis, these forms were scrutinized in relation to their function and application across different uses of the PP. The findings provide empirical evidence that enriches the understanding of the crosslinguistic complexity between the PP and its French equivalents, offering valuable insights for foreign language learning, teaching, and translation. The study also stresses the importance of interpretations of tense equivalences in the pursuit of successful crosslinguistic communication.
A multimodal contrastive analysis of regulations and instructions during the COVID-19 lockdown in the context of the Island of Madeira and the United Kingdom
Authors: da Silva Leandro , Kurteš Svetlana
Published: July 2024

The paper analyses aspects of multilingual and multimodal narratives employed during the COVID-19 lockdown, attempting to identify how they were used in professional and public environments. More specifically, the paper looks at editing choices, photography, design, drawing, colour, and writing to get a better understanding of multimodal communication, semiotics, image analysis, and their correlation with the written text and the way it has been perceived and interpreted, be it in online or print-based contexts. Methodologically, this is a contrastively inspired research project, looking specifically at Portuguese-speaking contexts of the Island of Madeira and English-speaking contexts of the United Kingdom, taking into account instructions about the COVID-19 pandemic. These are mainly bilingual English–Portuguese and multilingual texts, multimodal manifestations, and communicative and semiotic effectiveness.
Positive bases, cones, Helly-type theorems
Authors: Bárány Imre
Published: July 2024

Assume that k ≤ d is a positive integer and 𝓒 is a finite collection of convex bodies in ℝ
d
. We prove a Helly-type theorem: If for every subfamily 𝓒* ⊂ 𝓒 of size at most max{d + 1, 2(d – k + 1)} the set ⋂ 𝓒* contains a k-dimensional cone, then so does ⋂ 𝓒. One ingredient in the proof is another Helly-type theorem about the dimension of lineality spaces of convex cones.
Potential applications for modified Klemmsolutions
Authors: Schnarr H.
Published: July 2024

The article describes various modifications of Klemm etching solutions and their applications to different materials. In addition to classic immersion etching, electrolytic etching is also used for the first time, demonstrating the potential of this etching method based on sodium thiosulfate and potassium metabisulfide for other materials.
Umweltpolitischer Vorreiter
Authors: Seefried Elke
Published: July 2024

Auf der Konferenz der Vereinten Nationen für Umwelt und Entwicklung etablierte sich 1992 das Bild Deutschlands als umweltpolitischer Vorreiter. Elke Seefried zeigt anhand neu zugänglicher Quellen, wie sich Anfang der 1990er Jahre außen-, umwelt- und entwicklungspolitische Selbstverständnisse und Politiken Deutschlands veränderten. Nicht nur Umweltminister Klaus Töpfer (CDU), sondern auch zivilgesellschaftliche Akteure wirkten daran mit, eine Politik nachhaltiger Entwicklung zu einem Markenkern deutscher Politik zu machen. Der schillernde Begriff nachhaltige Entwicklung stand für globales Verantwortungsbewusstsein und multilaterale Verständigung. Zugleich hatte er eine Kompensationsfunktion: Das Bild des umweltpolitischen Vorreiters ermöglichte ein Ausweichen vor der Frage einer deutschen Beteiligung an militärischen Interventionen. Die Rio-Konferenz war damit Motor einer neuen deutschen Rolle in der Weltpolitik.
Resilienz
Authors: Szöllösi-Janze Margit
Published: July 2024

Das Konzept Resilienz als Sonde in die Zeitgeschichte einzuführen, erlaubt dieser, sich über Verwissenschaftlichungsprozesse neu zu definieren, sich der Analyse komplexer Zusammenhänge zu stellen und innovative Fragestellungen zu entwickeln. Seit den 1970er Jahren diffundierte der Terminus international aus der Physik zunächst in die Psychologie und Ökologie und verklammert seit der Jahrtausendwende wie ein interdisziplinäres Scharnier Natur-, Lebens-, Gesellschafts- und Kulturwissenschaften. Der Resilienz-Begriff drang außerdem aus den Wissenschaften in das Denken etwa von Politik, Militär, Ökonomie und Kindererziehung vor. Resilienz ist eng an die Wahrnehmung multipler Krisen oder gar drohender Katastrophen gebunden und an die Erwartung geknüpft, den Kipppunkt wissenschaftsbasiert für Innovation und Erneuerung zu nutzen.
A Time When Bubbles Burst
Authors: Jurado Julieta Flores
Published: July 2024

An expanding body of work demonstrates that American food writing is extending its reach beyond pleasure and abundance to address systemic problems. It has gradually moved away from the practice of assigning status and value to certain foodways, a task predominantly performed by food authorities who did not reflect diverse backgrounds. Instead, recent food journalism engages in discussions regarding class, race, colonialism, ableism, weight stigma, labor rights, and immigration policies, among other pertinent social and political issues. Self-scrutiny is one of its distinguishing features. Much of this change was accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which created the circumstances in which food writing became more self-reflexive and more likely to take a political stance. The central aim of this article is to center writings on restaurants to explore key insights from chefs and authors who explicitly reorient their work toward social justice. This shift can be identified in the Best American Food Writing series (2020–2021) and is supported by other contemporary works that discuss food and sociopolitical issues with an emphasis on the restaurant critic’s positionality. The article closes with a consideration of the long-term impact of the main reckoning that occurred in 2020.
Zacieranie i odtwarzanie granicy w warunkach pandemii na przykładzie wybranych polsko‑niemieckich dwumiast
Authors: Rogowski Łukasz ,   Uniwersytet im. Adama Mickiewicza w Poznaniu
Published: July 2024

The paper explores life on the borderland from the perspective of mobility processes. It treats the freedom of movement and various kinds of associated interventions as an example of processes of border blurring (debordering). This situation is juxtaposed with the temporary closure of borders and the reinstatement of control due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This blockage of mobility is described as a factor profoundly modifying life on the border and as an example of processes of border restoration (rebordering). The area where these processes are illustrated is the German-Polish twin cities. The presented results are based on the qualitative empirical research conducted in these areas – research walks and in-depth interviews – supplemented by additional telephone interviews conducted during the pandemic.
Sukcesja na urzędzie prezydenta w republikach Azji Środkowej. Rozwiązania normatywne i praktyka
Authors: Czachor Rafał ,   Krakowska Akademia im. Andrzeja Frycza Modrzewskiego
Published: July 2024

The following study is devoted to normative and practical aspects of the presidential succession in post-Soviet republics: Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan in the period of 2006–2022. In these Central Asian countries personalized, superpresidential models of government have emerged, what makes the transfer of the presidential power critically important for the further regime existence. As the following paper shows, in all mentioned states such procedure is regulated by the constitutions, but in some cases the transfer of power was not in line with the legal provisions. The paper concludes that the Central Asian republics have established some model of presidential succession what confirms, that these nations are consolidated, “militant autocracies” that guarantee themselves continuity and resistance.
Dezintegracja struktur wywiadowczych Związku Sowieckiego po 1991 roku – ujęcie historyczne i ocena skutków tego zjawiska
Authors: Kozłowski Józef ,   Akademia Sztuki Wojennej
Published: July 2024

The end of the Cold War marked a period of substantial changes in the global political system, but also a moment of transformation of the Russian Federation and CIS states’ intelligence. This article identifies the key elements that have influenced the evolution of Russian intelligence structures and doctrinessince 1991. It delves into the fundamental aspects of these changes: the principles governing intelligence institutions, organizational dimensions, and the scope of operational and analytical activities, encompassing the adoption of new methods, techniques, and tools.
Problem granicy międzypaństwowej w stosunkach ukraińsko-białoruskich
Authors: Polovyi Taras ,   Politechnika Lwowska
Published: July 2024

The issue of the Ukrainian-Belarusian border has been and continues to be problematic. This example demonstrates the complexity and ambiguity of bilateral relations between Ukraine and Belarus. The article highlights that the delimitation and demarcation of the state border between Ukraine and Belarus, following their declaration of independence, has become a crucial matter in the relations of both countries. Based on the analysis of destructive factors on the Ukrainian-Belarusian border, the author notes the potential for conflict in this direction.
Policja Państwowa i przestępczość w powiecie wysokomazowieckim w latach 1918–1939. Część II
Authors: Sobieszczak Piotr ,   Łapskie Towarzystwo Regionalne im. ppłk. Stanisława Nilskiego‑Łapińskiego
Published: July 2024

The article continues the subject matter covered in an article published in “Studia Podlaskie” in 2022. The research focuses on political crimes, nationality conflicts, assaults, and murders. It also provides an overview of the key tools employed to violate the law. A comprehensive inquiry involved the the analysis of various source materials, including reports of the Bialystok voivode, daily newspapers, and specialized press.
Calcitonin treatment for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis – a systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical data
Authors: Meyer Günderoth Mara , Bannach-Brown Alexandra , Winkler Tobias , Keller Johannes , Zahn Robert Karl , Maleitzke Tazio
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of calcitonin (CT) in animal models of experimental osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), as new stabilized CT formulations are currently being introduced.

Methods

A comprehensive and systemic literature search was conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE and Embase databases to identify articles with original data on CT treatment of preclinical OA and RA. Methodological quality was assessed using the Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory Animal Experimentation’s risk of bias tool for animal intervention studies. To provide summary estimates of efficacy, a meta-analysis was conducted for outcomes reported in four or more studies, using a random-effects model. Subgroup analyses were employed to correct for study specifics.

Results

Twenty-six studies were ultimately evaluated and data from 16 studies could be analyzed in the meta-analysis, which included the following outcomes: bone mineral density, bone volume, levels of cross-linked C-telopeptide of type I collagen, histopathological arthritis score, and mechanical allodynia. For all considered outcome parameters, CT-treated groups were significantly superior to control groups (P = 0.002; P = 0.01; P < 0.00001; P < 0.00001; P = 0.04). For most outcomes, effect sizes were significantly greater in OA than in RA (P ≤ 0.025). High in-between study heterogeneity was detected.

Conclusion

There is preclinical evidence for an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, cartilage- and bone-protective effect of CT in RA and OA. Given these effects, CT presents a promising agent for the treatment of both diseases, although the potential seems to be greater in OA.
Postoperative management following osteotomies around the knee: a narrative review
Authors: Finger Felix Christoph , Schröter Steffen , Ihle Christoph , Herbst Moritz , Histing Tina , Ahrend Marc-Daniel
Published: July 2024

The present narrative review provides a summary of postoperative therapy modalities and their effectiveness following osteotomies around the knee.

The topics that are discussed in the scientific discourse include support of cartilage cell regeneration, pain management, drainage insertion, tourniquet use, pharmacological and mechanical thromboembolism prophylaxis, weight-bearing protocols and bone consolidation.

There is evidence for the use of pharmacological thromboembolism prophylaxis and weight-bearing protocols.

A standardized postoperative treatment concept following osteotomies around the knee cannot be derived due to lack of evidence for the other topics in current literature.
Traumatic pelvic ring fracture during pregnancy: a systematic review
Authors: Eslami Arvin , Chehrassan Mohammadreza , Alimoghadam Shaya , Pisoudeh Karim , Kasaeian Amir , Elahifar Omid
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This systematic review aims to investigate the management and outcomes of pelvic ring fractures (PRFs) during pregnancy, emphasizing maternal and fetal mortality rates, mechanisms of injury, and treatment modalities.

Methods

Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a comprehensive search of databases from 2000 to 2023. This search identified 15 relevant studies involving a total of 33 patients. Data extraction included demographics, fracture types, treatment methods, and outcomes. Risk of bias was assessed using the JBI criteria.

Results

Maternal mortality stood at 9.1%, with fetal mortality at 42.4%. Maternal factors impacting mortality included head trauma and hemodynamic instability. Fetal mortality correlated with mechanisms like motor vehicle accidents and maternal vital signs. Surgical and conservative treatments were applied, with a majority of pelvic surgeries performed before delivery. External fixators proved effective in fracture stabilization.

Conclusion

Pelvic ring fractures during pregnancy present significant risks to maternal and fetal health. Early stabilization and vigilant monitoring of maternal vital signs are crucial. Vaginal bleeding/discharge serves as a critical fetal risk indicator. The choice between surgical and conservative treatment minimally influenced outcomes. Multidisciplinary collaboration and tailored interventions are essential in managing these complex cases.
Achilles tendon complications of fluoroquinolone treatment: a molecule-stratified systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sangiorgio Alessandro , Sirone Martina , Adravanti Federico Maria , Testa Enrique Adrian , Riegger Martin , Filardo Giuseppe
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The association between fluoroquinolone intake and Achilles tendinopathy (AT) or Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) is widely documented. However, it is not clear whether different molecules have the same effect on these complications. The purpose of this study was to document Achilles tendon complications for the most prescribed fluoroquinolones molecules.

Methods

A literature search was performed on Pubmed, Cochrane, Embase, and Web of Science databases up to April 2023. Inclusion criteria: studies of any level of evidence, written in English, documenting the prevalence of AT/ATR after fluoroquinolone consumption and stratifying the results for each type of molecule. The Downs and Black’s ‘Checklist for Measuring Quality’ was used to evaluate the risk of bias.

Results

Twelve studies investigating 439,299 patients were included (59.7% women, 40.3% men, mean age: 53.0 ± 15.6 years). The expected risk of AT/ATR was 0.17% (95% CI: 0.15–0.19, standard error (s.e.): 0.24) for levofloxacin, 0.17% (95% CI: 0.16–0.19, s.e.: 0.20) for ciprofloxacin, 1.40% (95% CI: 0.88–2.03, s.e.: 2.51) for ofloxacin, and 0.31% (95% CI: 0.23–0.40, s.e.: 0.77) for the other molecules. The comparison between groups documented a significantly higher AT/ATR rate in the ofloxacin group (P < 0.0001 for each comparison). Levofloxacin and ciprofloxacin showed the same risk (P = n.s.). The included studies showed an overall good quality.

Conclusion

Ofloxacin demonstrated a significantly higher rate of AT/ATR complications in the adult population, while levofloxacin and ciprofloxacin showed a safer profile compared to all the other molecules. More data are needed to identify other patient and treatment-related factors influencing the risk of musculoskeletal complications.
Malnutrition in total joint arthroplasty: what should the orthopaedic surgeon consider?
Authors: Almeida Peter Richard , Mokete Lipalo , Sikhauli Nkhodiseni , Mota Ahmad , Ndindwa Bayanda , Pietrzak Jurek R T
Published: July 2024

Total joint arthroplasty (TJA) is rising globally, with an associated increase in associated complications, necessitating increased efforts in prevention of these complications with pre-operative optimisation.

Malnutrition has been highlighted as one of the most important pre-operative modifiable risk factors to be addressed in TJA, with the term malnutrition in orthopaedic surgery having a broad definition that encompasses a wide range of nutritional abnormalities from undernutrition to overnutrition contributing to the outcomes of TJA.

Complications associated with malnutrition include periprosthetic joint infection (PJI), periprosthetic fracture, dislocations, aseptic loosening, anaemia, prolonged length of stay (LOS), increased mortality, and raised health care costs.

Standardised nutritional scoring tools, anthropometric measurements, and serological markers are all options available in pre-operative nutritional assessment in TJA, but there is no consensus yet regarding the standardisation of what parameters to assess and how to assess them.

Abnormal parameters identified using any of the assessment methods results in the diagnosis of malnutrition, and correction of these parameters of overnutrition or undernutrition have shown to improve outcomes in TJA.

With the multiple nutritional parameters contributing to the success of total joint arthroplasty, it is imperative that orthopaedic surgeon has a thorough knowledge regarding nutritional peri-operative optimisation in TJA.
Bias in published randomized trials that compare collagenase injection with percutaneous needle fasciotomy in the treatment of Dupuytren disease: a systematic review
Authors: Eckerdal David , Pakosta Hendrik , Ali Muhanned , Atroshi Isam
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Controversy exists regarding the comparative efficacy of collagenase injection and percutaneous needle fasciotomy in the treatment of Dupuytren contracture. The randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that have compared the two treatment methods have reported results mostly implying similar treatment efficacy, durability, and complications. We aimed to review these RCTs regarding methodical quality and risk of bias.

Methods

We searched PubMed and Cochrane Library databases up to May 2023. All RCTs comparing collagenase injection with needle fasciotomy were included. Eligible articles were reviewed by two researchers, of whom one was blinded to each article’s title, authors, year of publication, journal, and source of the studies. To assess methodical quality, we used the modified Jadad scale yielding a score of 0 (lowest quality) to 5 (highest quality). We assessed risk of bias with the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool (RoB 2).

Results

Five studies were eligible, comprising 204 patients treated with collagenase injection and 209 patients treated with needle fasciotomy. The modified Jadad score ranged from 1 to 2 points in the five studies, and the overall risk of bias was high in all studies. Pretrial protocols could be retrieved for only two studies, revealing important discrepancies with the published articles.

Conclusion

The published RCTs that have compared collagenase injection with needle fasciotomy in the treatment of Dupuytren contracture demonstrate a high risk of bias.
Partial Tibial Neurectomy for Treatment of Spastic Paresis in a Simmental Calf
Authors: Alkan Fahrettin , Zamirbekova Nuriza , Ergin Hilmican , Pulat Selman , Koc Yilmaz
Published: July 2024

Spastic paresis is a progressive neuromuscular disease that usually occurs in calves at the age of 3-5 months. The material of this study was a 3.5-month old female Simmental calf, weighing 87 kg, brought to Selcuk University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Large Animal Hospital in May 2023 with a complaint of lameness in the right hind leg. Clinical examination revealed contraction and hyperextension in the right hind limb of the calf. There was no swelling or pain in the tarsal or genu joints or other anatomical regions. Radiological examination showed no evidence of degenerative joint disease. A diagnosis of progressive spastic paresis was made on the basis of the clinical findings. Partial neurectomy of the tibial nerve was made to treat the calf with spastic paresis. A 15 cm incision was made over the semimembranous and gluteobiceps muscles to access the area. The tibial nerve innervating the gastrocnemius muscles was then identified and a 1 cm section was resected. This de-innervated the gastrocnemius muscles of the limb and the weight was transferred to the flexor digitorum superfisialis. Postoperatively, the patient was treated with antibiotics and analgesics. In conclusion; in the case of spastic paralysis, pain and contractions related to muscle spasms disappeared after the partial tibial neurectomy operation and the life welfare of the calf increased.
Breaking of Rossby waves in the stratosphere. Part I. Climatology and long-term variability
Authors: АНТОХИНА О.Ю. , ГОЧАКОВ А.В. , ЗОРКАЛЬЦЕВА О.С. , АНТОХИН П.Н. , КРУПЧАТНИКОВ В.Н.
Published: July 2024

Процессы разрушения (опрокидывания) планетарных волн Россби (ОВР) вносят значительную изменчивость в стратосферную циркуляцию. Используя метод идентификации ОВР, адаптированный к условиям циркуляции в стратосфере, анализируются климатология и долговременная изменчивость ОВР в средней стратосфере. В основе метода лежит анализ геометрии контуров потенциальной завихренности (PV – potential vorticity) на уровне 850 К по данным ERA5 для диапазона завихренности 0–400 PVU (единицы PV), выделенного на основании климатологии поля PV. Показано, что ОВР имеет внутрисезонные особенности. Наиболее часто волны разрушаются в северных частях Восточной Азии и Тихого океана с октября по декабрь, а также в апреле и марте; в январе и феврале не выявлено областей с преобладанием процессов ОВР. Мы получили статистически значимое увеличение количества ОВР в начале зимы (октябрь–декабрь) и в конце (март–апрель). Для середины зимы (январь–февраль) были получены незначимые отрицательные тренды. Результаты настоящей работы могут быть использованы при анализе долговременной изменчивости стратосферной циркуляции, в том числе возникновения стратосферных аномалий, предшествующих внезапным стратосферным потеплениям.

The processes of planetary wave breaking (Rossby Wave Breaking – RWB) significantly contribute to variability in stratospheric circulation. Employing a previously developed method for identifying RWB, adapted for stratospheric circulation, this study analyzes the climatology and long-term variability of RWB processes in the middle stratosphere. The method is based on the analysis of potential vorticity (PV) contour geometry at the 850-K level using ERA5 data within the PV range 0–400 PVU (Potential Vorticity Units) determined based on PV field climatology. It was demonstrated that RWB processes exhibit intraseasonal peculiarities. Most frequently, waves break in the northern regions of East Asia and the Pacific Ocean from October to December and in April to March. In January and February, no areas with prevailing RWB processes were identified. We obtained statistically significant increase in the number of RWB for the first half of winter (October–December) and for the end of the winter period (March and April). For mid-winter (January and February), insignificant negative trends were obtained.
Valorization of unripe banana peel (Robusta) powder for the production of tannase using Bacillus xiamenensis in submerged fermentation
Authors: Alfarhan Ahmed , Rajagopal Rajakrishnan , Ponnuswamy Vijayaraghavan
Published: July 2024

Tannases are industrial enzymes used in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, food, and environmental management. In the present study, 11 tannase-producing Bacillus spp. were isolated from agricultural soil, banana root soil, vegetable garbage, and fruit garbage. These isolated bacteria were screened using tannic acid agar plates. The zone of hydrolysis varied from 9 mm to 21 mm, and the strain Bacillus xiamenensis BR1 exhibited the highest activity. The dried unripe banana peel (Robusta) was powdered, and particles between 1 and 1.5 mm were used as substrate. The banana peel consists of 7.84 ± 0.15% hydrolysable tannin, which induces the production of tannase. The production medium was prepared at 10% (w/v) unripe banana peel powder. The screening experiments revealed that fermentation period, pH, inoculums, and tannic acid improved tannase production. A two-level full factorial design revealed the influence of pH, inoculums, and incubation time on tannase production (F-value=8.99; p-value=<0.0001). The optimum concentration was analyzed using a central composite design, and the model was significant (F-value = 17.03; p-value = 0.0001). Under optimal bioprocess conditions, tannase yield was 2.4-fold higher than in an unoptimized medium. The unripe banana peel can be used as a substrate for the production of tannase by Bacillus sp.
Analyzing crop production: Unraveling the impact of pests and pesticides through a fractional model
Authors: Jha Navnit , Yadav Akash , Pandey Ritesh , Misra A.K.
Published: July 2024

The continuous growth of the human population raises concerns about food, fiber, and agricultural insecurity. Meeting the escalating demand for agricultural products due to this population surge makes protecting crops from pests becomes imperative. While farmers use chemical pesticides as crop protectors, the extensive use of these chemicals adversely affects both human health and the environment. In this research work, we formulate a nonlinear mathematical model using the Caputo fractional (CF) operator to investigate the effects of pesticides on crop yield dynamics. We assume that pesticides are sprayed proportional to the density of pest density and pests not entirely reliant on crops. The feasibility of every possible nonnegative equilibrium and its stability characteristics are explored utilizing the stability theory of fractional differential equations. Our model analysis reveals that in a continuous spray approach, the roles of pesticide abatement rate and pesticide uptake rate can be interchanged. Furthermore, we have identified the optimal time profile for pesticide spraying rate. This profile proves effective in minimizing both the pest population and the associated costs. To provide a practical illustration of our analytical findings and to showcase the impact of key parameters on the system’s dynamics, we conducted numerical simulations. These simulations are conducted employing the generalized Adams–Bashforth–Moulton method, which allowed us to vividly demonstrate the real-world implications of our research.
ЗОВНІШНІ ПЕРЕВІРКИ НА РИНКУ ЗЕЛЕНИХ ОБЛІГАЦІЙ: МІЖНАРОДНА ПРАКТИКА ТА ІНСАЙТИ ДЛЯ УКРАЇНИ
Authors: ФРОЛОВ Андрій
Published: July 2024

Досліджено практики проведення зовнішніх перевірок на ринку зелених облігацій. Встановлено, що існує кілька рівнів і типів таких перевірок. Їх здійснюють як перед випуском зелених облігацій, з фокусуванням на підтвердженні відповідності основним міжнародно встановленим принципам, так і після – з оцінюванням фактичного використання залучених коштів і передбачуваного впливу на екологію. Зовнішні перевірки можуть відрізнятися за обсягом і видами організацій, що їх здійснюють. Під час зовнішніх перевірок на ринку зелених облігацій між усіма організаціями має бути унеможливлений конфлікт інтересів.
Проаналізовано міжнародні стандарти, керівні акти та інструкції, яких рекомендовано дотримуватись емітентам і верифікаторам зелених облігацій. Охарактеризовано вимоги до професійної кваліфікації верифікаторів і здійснення стандартизованих процедур. Встановлено, що існує низка професійних, етичних і галузевих стандартів, яким мають відповідати постачальники послуг із зовнішніх перевірок на ринку. Охарактеризовано підходи ЄС до впорядкування таких послуг. Внутрішній ринок зелених облігацій у ЄС планують захистити за допомогою стандартизованих процедур і акредитації верифікаторів зелених облігацій.
Виявлено, що відсутні механізми регулюючого нагляду за діяльністю постачальників послуг із зовнішньої перевірки на внутрішньому ринку зелених облігацій України. Сформовано концептуальні пропозиції щодо встановлення режиму акредитації верифікаторів і підтримки емітентів зелених облігацій в Україні, що дозволять здешевити вартість зовнішніх перевірок на локальному ринку.
Electron levels of defects in In(Ga)As/(In)GaAs nanostructures: A review
Authors: Datsenko O.I. ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Physics Faculty, 01601 Kyiv, Ukraine, Kravchenko V.M. , Golovynskyi S. ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Physics Faculty, 01601 Kyiv, Ukraine,   College of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, P.R. China
Published: July 2024

The data on electron levels induced by defects in In(Ga)As/(In)GaAs nanostructures, their localization, activation energy and identification have been systematically reviewed. Point defects inherent to GaAs and found in the (In)GaAs-based nanostructures have been listed, and their classification has been clarified, including EB3, EL2, EL3, EL4 (M4), EL5, EL6 (M3), EL7, EL8, EL9 (M2), EL10 (M1), EL11 (M0) and M00. The effect of the interfaces on the formation of different types of extended defects has been described. All the levels of electron traps found in heterostructures with quantum wells, wires and dots by deep level spectroscopies have been collected in a table with indication of the detection technique, object, location in the structure and their origin assumed. This overview can be useful as a reference material for researchers who study these nanostructures.
Properties of focused combined modes of terahertz laser
Authors: Degtyarev A.V. ,   V. Karazin Kharkiv National University, 4 Svobody Sq., 61022 Kharkiv, Ukraine, Dubinin M.M. , Gurin O.V. , Maslov V.O. , Muntean K.I. , Ryabykh V.N. , Senyuta V.S. , Svystunov O.O. ,   V. Karazin Kharkiv National University, 4 Svobody Sq., 61022 Kharkiv, Ukraine,   V. Karazin Kharkiv National University, 4 Svobody Sq., 61022 Kharkiv, Ukraine,   V. Karazin Kharkiv National University, 4 Svobody Sq., 61022 Kharkiv, Ukraine,   V. Karazin Kharkiv National University, 4 Svobody Sq., 61022 Kharkiv, Ukraine,   V. Karazin Kharkiv National University, 4 Svobody Sq., 61022 Kharkiv, Ukraine,   V. Karazin Kharkiv National University, 4 Svobody Sq., 61022 Kharkiv, Ukraine,   V. Karazin Kharkiv National University, 4 Svobody Sq., 61022 Kharkiv, Ukraine
Published: July 2024

Physical features of spatial-energy characteristics of linearly polarized THz laser beams at sharp and moderate focusing in free space are analyzed both theoretically and experimentally. The Rayleigh–Sommerfeld vector theory is used to model propagation of laser beams excited by quasi-optical waveguide resonator modes in free space. Well-known methods of measuring spatial-energy characteristics of laser beams in the THz range are used in the experimental study. It is shown that the intensity of the total electric field of both combined TE0n + EH2n and EН–1n + EH3n modes (n = 1, 2, 3) in the focal region is defined by all three components and has a dip on the axis for both focusing types. The central maxima of the field of these modes become significantly shifted from the geometric foci of the lenses used as the order n of these modes increases. The EН–11 + EH31 mode has the smallest diameter (2.94λ) of the focal spot in the maximum intensity region at sharp focusing. The TE01 + EH21 mode has the smallest diameter (13.65λ) of the focal spot at moderate focusing.
Initiation and Formulation of Internationalization of Islamic Religious Higher Education
Authors: Saepudin Didin , Asmawi Asmawi , Sujoko Imam , Sapiudin Sapiudin
Published: July 2024

AbstractGlobalisation trends and free trade have emerged as catalysts for the internationalisation of higher education institutions. The internationalisation of PTKI has primarily been spearheaded by State Islamic University (UIN) Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta and UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, particularly within their Postgraduate Programs (PPs). However, the efficacy of these initiatives necessitates critical review and evaluation, hence the imperative for this research. This qualitative, multi-case study employs internationalisation as the unit of analysis, gathering data through documentary studies and in-depth interviews. Following verification, reduction, and categorisation, the data were analysed utilising discourse and thematic techniques. This study focuses on the Postgraduate Schools (SPs) of UIN Jakarta and UIN Yogyakarta. The findings reveal that indicators of internationalisation across various dimensions, including management, teaching and educational staff, students, research, collaboration, and international reputation, have been pursued by the SPs of UIN Jakarta. However, one notable absence is the provision of international study programs at both the master’s and doctoral levels, a feature already present within the PPs of UIN Yogyakarta.AbstrakTren globalisasi dan perdagangan bebas telah menjadi salah satu pendorong bagi internasionalisasi lembaga pendidikan tinggi. Internasionalisasi Perguruan Tinggi Keagamaan Islam (PTKI) telah diinisiasi, dirancang, dan bahkan diimplementasikan oleh Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta dan UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, khususnya Program Pascasarjana mereka. Namun, implementasinya perlu ditinjau kembali dan dievaluasi; oleh karena itu, ini adalah urgensi dari penyelenggaraan penelitian ini. Penelitian ini adalah studi kualitatif dan multi kasus di mana internasionalisasi digunakan sebagai unit analisis yang mengarah pada pengumpulan data melalui studi dokumen dan wawancara mendalam. Setelah verifikasi, reduksi, dan kategorisasi, data dianalisis menggunakan teknik diskursus dan tematik. Objek dalam penelitian ini adalah Program Studi (PSs) UIN Jakarta dan UIN Yogyakarta. Penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa indikator internasionalisasi lembaga pendidikan tinggi dalam Manajemen, pengajaran dan staf pendidik, mahasiswa, penelitian, kerjasama, dan reputasi internasional telah dilakukan dan terus dikejar oleh Program Pascasarjana (SPs) UIN Jakarta. Satu indikator yang absen dari SPs UIN Jakarta adalah program studi internasional baik pada tingkat magister maupun doktoral. Sebagai gantinya, program studi internasional telah ada di PPs UIN Yogyakarta.How to Cite: Saepudin, D., Asmawi, Sujoko, I., & Sapiudin. (2023). Initiation and Formulation of Internationalization of Islamic Religious Higher Education. TARBIYA: Journal of Education in Muslim Society, 10(2), 192-206. doi:10.15408/tjems.v10i2.34551.