bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing a bundle of peer counseling, mobile phone messages, and mama kits in promoting timely initiation of and exclusive breastfeeding in Uganda: A cluster randomized controlled study
Authors: Mukunya David , Tumwine James K. , Ndeezi Grace , Musaba Milton W. , Tongun Justin Bruno , Tumuhamye Josephine , Napyo Agnes , Oguttu Faith , Amanya Daphine , Odongkara Beatrice , Achora Vincentina , Tylleskar Thorkild , Nankabirwa Victoria
Published: January 2025

Background

Timely initiation of and exclusive breastfeeding have been recommended as key interventions to enable countries to attain the sustainable development target of reducing neonatal mortality to no more than 12 deaths per 1000 live births and to reduce mortality of children under 5 years to no more than 25 deaths per 1000 live births.

Methods

We conducted a cluster randomized controlled trial with the main objective to assess the effect of an integrated package consisting of: peer counseling, mobile phone messages, and mama kits on promoting health facility births between January 2018 and February 2019, in Lira district, Northern Uganda. In this article, we assessed the effect of the intervention on our two secondary objectives: timely initiation of and exclusivity of breastfeeding. We used a generalized estimation equation of the Poisson family, with a log or identity link, taking clustering into account to estimate prevalence ratios and prevalence differences.

Results

A total of 64% (594/926) of participants in the intervention arm initiated breastfeeding within the first hour after birth compared to 60% (493/829) in the control arm. The proportion of participants in the intervention arm that initiated breastfeeding within the first hour of life did not significantly differ from that in the control arm [Prevalence Ratio (PR) 1.08 (0.97 to 1.21)] and [Prevalence Difference (PD) 0.05 (-0.02 to 0.12)]. When we restricted the analysis to only mothers who decided on when to breastfeed, there was some evidence of intervention effectiveness [PR 1.20, 95% CI (0.99–1.5)]. In the intervention arm, 89% (804/904) of participants exclusively breastfed their infants in the first month of life compared to 81% (656/813) in the control arm. Participants in the intervention arm were 10% more likely to have exclusively breastfed in the preceding 24 hours compared to mothers in the control arm [PR 1.10 (1.04 to 1.17)] and [PD 0.08 (0.04 to 0.13)], and 16% more likely to have exclusively breastfed since birth compared to mothers in the control arm [PR 1.16 (1.03 to 1.30)] and [PD 0.12 (0.03 to 0.20].

Conclusion

The intervention improved the proportion of mothers who practiced exclusive breastfeeding in the first month of life, but did not increase the proportion of mothers who initiated breastfeeding in the first hour of life. Future breastfeeding promotion interventions should consider including a health facility component and improving maternal autonomy to promote timely initiation of breastfeeding.
Determining patient activity goals and their fulfillment following total knee arthroplasty: Findings from the prospective, observational SuPeR Knee study
Authors: Ribbons Karen , Payne Kristy , Ditton Elizabeth , Johnson Sarah , Wills Adrian , Walker Frederick Rohan , Pollack Michael , Nilsson Michael
Published: January 2025

Background

Dissatisfaction with Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) surgical outcomes remains between 10–20% and is associated with higher levels of societal costs. Expectations regarding post-surgical outcomes is considered as one of the major factors influencing satisfaction, however, there are no standardised methods for assessing patient’s expectations regarding activities to be achieved following surgery.

Objectives

The aims of this study were to identify patient expectations relating to activities of importance following TKA and to describe goal fulfillment at 3 months post-TKA. We hypothesised that activity expectation fulfillment would be associated with overall satisfaction with TKA outcomes.

Methods

This study comprised secondary data analysis of findings from the SuPeR Knee study. Using conventional content analysis, a classification system of activities specific to our TKA patient cohort was created. At 3 months following TKA, patients rated satisfaction with fulfilling activity goals and pain attenuation. The average level of satisfaction achieved was used as our measure of goal fulfillment. Overall satisfaction of the outcomes of surgery was rated using a 5-point Likert scale and the association between goal fulfillment and overall surgery satisfaction was compared by Spearman’s rank correlation.

Results

Data were collected from 861 TKA patients. Recreation and sporting pursuits were found to be important activity types (43% of all activities). At 3 months after surgery, less impactful activities were more commonly satisfied (67%), including domestic and vocational activities, low impact hobbies and leisure activities. Goal fulfillment and improvement in knee pain were both significantly positively correlated to, and significant predictors of, overall patient satisfaction (p≤0.001).

Conclusions

Our Australian cohort of TKA patients have a range of expectations for undertaking high-impact activities after surgery. However, at 3 months after surgery, higher rates of satisfaction were attained for lower-impact activities. Our findings support the importance of identifying activity expectations for each patient and that fulfillment of these goals contributes to overall satisfaction with the outcomes of TKA.
A systematic in vitro study of the effect of normoglycaemic and hyperglycaemic conditions on the biochemical and cellular interactions of clinically-available wound dressings with different physicochemical properties
Authors: Saberianpour Shirin , Melotto Gianluca , Forss Rachel , Redhead Lucy , Sandeman Susan , Terrazzini Nadia , Sarker Dipak , Santin Matteo
Published: January 2025

Diabetic foot, leg ulcers and decubitus ulcers affect millions of individuals worldwide leading to poor quality of life, pain and in several cases to limb amputations. Despite the global dimension of this clinical problem, limited progress has been made in developing more efficacious wound dressings, the design of which currently focusses on wound protection and control of its exudate volume. The present in vitro study systematically analysed seven types of clinically-available wound dressings made of different biomaterial composition and engineering. Their physicochemical properties were analysed by infrared spectroscopy, swelling and evaporation tests and variable pressure scanning electron microscopy. These properties were linked to the interactions with inflammatory cells in simulated normoglycaemic and hyperglycaemic conditions. It was observed that the swelling behaviour and evaporation prevention at different glucose levels depended more on the engineering of the fibres than on the hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity of their biomaterials. Likewise, the data show that the engineering of the dressings as either non-woven or woven or knitted fibres seems to determine the swelling behaviour and interactions with inflammatory cells more than their polymer composition. Dressings presenting absorbent layers made of synthetic, non-woven fibres supported the adhesion of monocytes macrophages and stimulate the release of factors known to play a role in the chronic inflammation. Non-woven absorbent layers based on carboxymethyl cellulose mainly stimulating the iNOS, an enzyme producing free radicals; in the case of Kerracel this was combined with a swelling of fibres preventing the penetration of cells. Kaltostat, an alginate-based wound dressing, showed the higher level of swelling and supporte the adhesion of inflammatory cells with limited activation. Knitted dressings showed a limited adhesion of inflammatory cells. In conclusion, this work offers insights about the interactions of these wound dressings with inflammatory cells upon exudate changes thus providing further criteria of choice to clinicians.
The global convergence of some self-scaling conjugate gradient methods for monotone nonlinear equations with application to 3DOF arm robot model
Authors: Ibrahim Sulaiman M. , Muhammad Lawal , Yunus Rabiu Bashir , Waziri Muhammad Yusuf , Kamaruddin Saadi bin Ahmad , Sambas Aceng , Zainuddin Nooraini , Jameel Ali F.
Published: January 2025

Conjugate Gradient (CG) methods are widely used for solving large-scale nonlinear systems of equations arising in various real-life applications due to their efficiency in employing vector operations. However, the global convergence analysis of CG methods remains a significant challenge. In response, this study proposes scaled versions of CG parameters based on the renowned Barzilai-Borwein approach for solving convex-constrained monotone nonlinear equations. The proposed algorithms enforce a sufficient descent property independent of the accuracy of the line search procedure and ensure global convergence under appropriate assumptions. Numerical experiments demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed methods in solving large-scale nonlinear systems, including their applicability to accurately solving the inverse kinematic problem of a 3DOF robotic manipulator, where the objective is to minimize the error in achieving a desired trajectory configuration.
Distribution and habitat of the painted tree rat (Callistomys pictus): Evaluating areas for future surveys and conservation efforts
Authors: Sanchez Andrés David Sarmiento , Alves-Ferreira Gabriela , Heming Neander Marcel , Giné Gastón Andrés Fernandez
Published: January 2025

Knowledge of the potential distribution and locations of poorly known threatened species is crucial for guiding conservation strategies and new field surveys. The painted tree-rat (Callistomys pictus) is a monospecific, rare, and endangered echimyid rodent endemic to the southern Bahia Atlantic Forest in Brazil. There have been no records of the species published in the last 20 years, and the region has experienced significant forest loss and degradation. According to the IUCN, only 13 specimens had been previously reported, with 12 found in the north of Ilhéus and adjacent municipalities, and one recorded approximately 200 km away from this region, suggesting that its distribution might be wider. We aimed to search for unpublished and more recent records of the C. pictus, by consulting the gray literature (including Environmental Impact Study (EIA) reports, Brazilian Red Lists, and management plans of protected areas), scientific collections, online databases, and mastozoologists working in the region. We estimated the species’ potential distribution using Ecological Niche Modeling to identify regions, municipalities, and protected areas most likely to support this species, based on factors such as climate suitability and forest cover. We reported three new sightings of the species, including the first within a protected area. We estimated suitable climate conditions across 23,151 km2, of which 9,225 km2 has a high potential for harboring the species. The area between Itacaré and Valença needs more extensive survey efforts as it has high habitat suitability and only one record has been confirmed there so far. Meanwhile, the region between Una and Ilhéus urgently requires habitat conservation initiatives. While the species may have a broader distribution than previously thought, its known occurrences are limited to a few locations, and suitable habitats are underrepresented in protected areas. Additionally, the rarity of sightings continues to indicate a concerning conservation status.
Efficacy and safety of creatine phosphate sodium in the treatment of viral myocarditis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Li , Chen Su-Fang , Huang Xi-Wei , Wu Zhi-Yang , Zhang Qing-Mei
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of creatine phosphate sodium in the treatment of viral myocarditis, and to provide guidance for its clinical treatment.

Methods

We conducted a search of The Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMbase, and Web of Science databases to retrieve randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the use of creatine phosphate sodium (CPS) in the treatment of viral myocarditis. The search was conducted up to April 2024. After screening the literature, extracting data, and evaluating the risk of bias in the included studies, we performed a meta-analysis using RevMan 5.4 and Stata17.0 statistical software.

Results

A total of 104 articles were retrieved, and 9 articles with a combined total of 1,116 patients were ultimately included in the meta-analysis. The results of the meta-analysis indicated that the overall efficacy rate in the phosphocreatine sodium treatment group was higher than that in the control group [RR = 1.22, 95%CI (1.15, 1.28), P<0.00001]. Furthermore, post-treatment levels of cardiac troponin I [MD = 0.1, 95%CI (0.07, 0.13), P<0.00001] and creatine kinase isoenzyme [MD = 9.43, 95%CI (7.04,11 .82), P<0 .00001] in the phosphocreatine treatment group were lower compared to those in the control group; both differences between groups were statistically significant. Additionally, there was no significant difference observed in adverse reaction incidence between the phosphocreatine sodium treatment group and conventional treatment group [RR = 1 .07, 95% CI (0 .68, 1 .67), P = O .77].

Conclusion

Creatine phosphate sodium treatment can significantly improve the therapeutic effect of patients with viral myocarditis, and can reduce the levels of cTnI and CK-MB. Compared with conventional treatment, it has good safety.
The effects of preoperative glenohumeral osteoarthritis on rotator cuff repair: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Fang Sen , Liang Junwen , Yang Xudong , Daoji Cairang , Nian Zhixuan , Li Mingchun , Jiang Jin , Yun Xiangdong
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This meta-analysis was carried out to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of rotator cuff repair surgery in treating rotator cuff tears in individuals with mild glenohumeral osteoarthritis (GHOA).

Methods

A computer-based search was conducted across multiple databases including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library using the keywords "Shoulder Joints", "Osteoarthrosis", and "rotator cuff". Only studies focusing on patients with GHOA who underwent rotator cuff repair were considered for inclusion. The pertinent data was extracted and assessed for heterogeneity.

Results

A total of 5 studies involving 924 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The treatment outcomes of patients with rotator cuff tears accompanied by mild GHOA and those with simple rotator cuff tears after rotator cuff repair were comparable in terms of retear(OR: 1.24; 95% CI 0.82–1.89; P = 0.31). The postoperative functional scores: the VAS score (MD: 0.14; 95% CI -0.19–0.47; P = 0.41)、ASES score (MD: -0.33; 95% CI -1.64–0.99)were similar between the two groups. Subgroup analysis of rotator cuff tears(small to moderate, MD: 0.85; 95%CI -0.65–2.39; p = 0.28; large to massive, MD: -1.94; 95% CI -8.45–4.58; P = 0.56), showed no difference in postoperative ASES scores between the two groups. Constant score (MD:-3.20; 95% CI -6.33–0.08; P = 0.04), external rotation (ER) in Range of motion (ROM) (MD: -4.42; 95% CI -6.72–2.13; P = 0.0002) and forward flexion (FF) in ROM(MD: -4.22; 95% CI -8.28–0.15; P = 0.04) were superior in patients with simple rotator cuff tears compared to those with rotator cuff tears accompanied by GHOA.

Conclusion

Patients with rotator cuff tears and mild GHOA can achieve shoulder joint restoration after shoulder cuff repair surgery, and there is only a certain difference in postoperative Constant Score and ROM between these two groups.

Trial registration

PROSPERO registration CRD42024565212.
Physical activity and metabolic syndrome in primary care patients in Spain
Authors: Micó-Pérez Rafael Manuel , Hernández Segura Natalia , Martín-Sánchez Vicente , Barquilla-García Alfonso , Velilla-Zancada Sonsoles M. , Polo-García José , Prieto-Díaz Miguel Ángel , Pallares-Carratala Vicente , Segura-Fragoso Antonio , Ginel-Mendoza Leovigildo , Cinza-Sanjurjo Sergio
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To determine the relationship between self-reported physical activity and the components of premorbid metabolic syndrome in patients treated in primary care according to sex.

Methods

Cross-sectional descriptive study conducted on a sample of 2,359 patients without cardiovascular disease or diabetes, included in the cohort of the IBERICAN study. Using ANOVA models and adjusting for age, economic status, employment situation, level of education, adherence to a Mediterranean diet, tobacco use and alcohol consumption, we estimated the association of the variables blood pressure, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, blood glucose and waist circumference with the self-reported level of physical activity (sedentary, moderate, high, very high). The analyses were performed stratifying by sex.

Results

A total of 854 men and 1,505 women with no identified diseases were included. Women were more sedentary than men (p<0.004; OR = 1,35; IC95% = 1,10–1,65) and presented lower values in all the components of the metabolic syndrome, except for HDL-cholesterol, which was higher (p<0.001). The adjusted ANOVA model shows that diastolic blood pressure, triglycerides, fasting blood glucose, and waist circumference were significantly lower the higher the level of physical activity in both men and women (p<0.05).

Conclusions

Patients served in primary care clinics without diabetes or cardiovascular disease and with high levels of physical activity showed better metabolic syndrome profiles. Given that women are more sedentary, gender approaches are needed in the promotion of physical activity to prevent metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease.
Factors influencing the adoption of e-government by female university students
Authors: Rodríguez-Correa Paula Andrea , Méndez-Rivera Carlos Alberto , Patiño-Toro Orfa Nidia , Valencia-Arias Alejandro , Conejo Ada Lucia Gallegos Ruiz , León Aarón Oré , Cumpa Vásquez Jorge Tomás , Alvites Adan Toño Eldrin
Published: January 2025

The primary purpose of electronic government (e-government) is to promote transparency, facilitate access to government services, and strengthen the accountability of public institutions in the digital transformation age. However, few studies have explored the factors that affect women’s adoption of e-government, especially in emerging economies. Consequently, this study aims to identify the factors that influence the adoption of e-government services by young women in Medellín, Colombia. To achieve this objective, a questionnaire was administered to a sample of 223 women, focusing on the factors proposed in the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The results were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings confirmed the validity of both the measurement and structural models, providing evidence for their predictive power. In addition, seven out of the eight hypotheses were confirmed, particularly highlighting the positive influence of ease of use on perceived usefulness, as well as the positive relationship between intention to use and actual use of the system. The results underscore the importance of reaching a more equitable and empowering participation of women in the digital government sphere. Moreover, they provide valuable insights for formulating policies and strategies that promote the effective adoption of e-government services by the demographic group under study.
Multicenter randomized double-blind placebo-controlled crossover study of the effect of prolonged noisy galvanic vestibular stimulation on posture or gait in vestibulopathy
Authors: Fujimoto Chisato , Kawahara Takuya , Kikkawa Yayoi S. , Kinoshita Makoto , Kamogashira Teru , Oka Mineko , Uranaka Tsukasa , Egami Naoya , Ichijo Kentaro , Kabaya Kayoko , Katsumi Sachiyo , Takashima Ikumi , Yamamoto Yoshiharu , Yagi Masato , Yamasoba Tatsuya , Iwasaki Shinichi
Published: January 2025

Objective

This multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial aimed to evaluate whether prolonged noisy galvanic vestibular stimulation improves body balance in patients with vestibulopathy.

Materials and methods

This trial was registered in the Japan Pharmaceutical Information Center Clinical Trials Information registry (jRCT1080224083). Subjects were 20- to 85-year-old patients who had been unsteady for more than one year and whose symptoms had persisted despite more than six months of rehabilitation. Enrolled subjects were randomly assigned to one of two groups; one group received the optimal intensity of noisy galvanic vestibular stimulation first and then the placebo 14 days later, the other was evaluated in the reverse order. The primary outcome was the difference of the mean percent change from the baseline in the velocity of center of pressure during 3 h of stimulation between the noisy galvanic vestibular stimulation and placebo periods. This was analyzed with the mixed effects model.

Results

Forty-two subjects were enrolled. The mean percent change in the velocity during stimulation for 3 h was -9.3% (SD 19.9%) for noisy galvanic vestibular stimulation and -12.6% (SD 15.0%) for placebo. No significant effects of noisy galvanic vestibular stimulation over placebo were found for velocity in the least-squares means of the difference [3.1% (95% CI -0.2 to 6.4, p = 0.066)].

Conclusion

Prolonged noisy galvanic vestibular stimulation did not significantly improve body balance in patients with poorly-compensated vestibulopathy.
Evolutionary analysis of landscape ecological risk in Baili Rhododendron National Forest Park
Authors: Yu Yin , Cui Wengang , Liu Suihua , Yu Ting , Song Yang
Published: January 2025

It is significant to research the ecological risk of land use landscape to promote ecological conservation and restoration. The characteristics of land use dynamic change in Baili Rhododendron National Forest Park were analyzed based on GlobeLand30 data for three periods in 2000, 2010 and 2020. With the support of the landscape ecological risk evaluation model and spatial analysis methods, the features of spatial and temporal differentiation of ecological risk and its spatial correlation in the study area were evaluated. The results show that (1) the landscape pattern changed visibly from 2000 to 2020, the comprehensive land-use dynamics increased from 8.53% to 9.66%, and the land use dynamics are greatest and change most dramatically on construction sites; (2) the landscape ecological risk level of the study area as a whole showed a declining trend, and 96.82% of the ecological risk plot index decreased, and the risk distribution was dominated by lower risk, medium risk and higher risk areas; (3) landscape ecological risk was spatially positively correlated across all time periods, and the spatial aggregation was gradually weakened, with the distribution of LH and HL areas dispersed and the distribution of HH and LL areas concentrated. The overall landscape ecological risk index has witnessed a decline, indicating a positive trajectory in the development of the ecological environment.
BMI-mediated association between glyphosate exposure and increased risk of atherosclerotic heart disease: A large-scale cross-sectional study
Authors: Xu Wendi , Chen Zhe , Jiang Yuhong , Zeng Hongbo , He Nan , Liu Ziyi , Zhou Meirong
Published: January 2025

Background

Glyphosate, as the main component of glyphosate pesticides, has been shown to have toxic effects on multiple human systems. However, the association between glyphosate and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) remains unclear. This study aims to explore the effect of glyphosate exposure on ASCVD.

Methods

This study involved 1,602 participants and employed various statistical techniques, such as multivariable logistic regression, linear fitting, mediation analysis, subgroup analysis, and sensitivity analysis, to elucidate the association between glyphosate exposure and cardiovascular diseases.

Results

Compared with the low level of glyphosate exposure, the risk of ASCVD increased significantly with high level of glyphosate exposure (OR = 2.05, 95%CI = 1.17–3.58, p<0.05, p for trend<0.05), which showed a linear upward trend. Further analysis found that exposure to high levels of glyphosate and angina pectoris (OR = 2.84, 95%CI = 1.00–8.04, p<0.05, p for trend<0.05), coronary heart disease (OR = 3.76, 95%CI = 1.80–7.83, p<0.01, p for trend<0.05), heart attack (OR = 2.65, 95%CI = 1.35–5.23, p<0.01, p for trend = 0.09) were associated. Mediating analysis found that BMI mediated the association between glyphosate exposure and ASCVD, with an indirect effect of 0.002405(95%CI: 0.000182–0.01, p = 0.02) and a direct effect of 0.039336(95%CI: 0.000391–0.09), total effect of 0.041741(95%CI: 0.002112–0.10).

Conclusion

Increased exposure to glyphosate is associated with an increased risk of ASCVD, and BMI plays a mediating role in this association. In addition, glyphosate exposure is associated with a higher risk of angina, coronary heart disease, and heart attack.
Exploring entrepreneurial intention among European Union youth by education and employment status
Authors: Vasilescu Maria Denisa , Crivoi Elen-Silvana , Munteanu Andreea-Monica
Published: January 2025

The relatively high vulnerability of young Europeans in the labour market compared to other age groups has led many to seek alternative employment solutions, such as entrepreneurship. While not a comprehensive solution, entrepreneurial initiatives among youth can offer a valuable opportunity for their integration into stable and decent work. This research uses Flash Eurobarometer 513—Social Entrepreneurship and Youth to explore entrepreneurial intentions among European Union youth. The study’s novelty consists of the division of the target population into four distinct categories based on educational and employment status. The results indicate that EU youth are not a homogeneous group. While the motivation to create their own jobs—is a common feature of all young individuals with entrepreneurial intentions, suggesting a necessity-driven entrepreneurial intention, significant differences emerge among sub-groups. Young people who are only studying exhibit an interest in exploiting business opportunities, highlighting the role of education in fostering opportunity-driven entrepreneurship, while NEETs and employed youth are primarily motivated by better income prospects in the intention to start a business. Additionally, youth engaged in education and those integrated into the labour market are better informed about financing and training opportunities Perceived barriers include a lack of education for NEETs and financial risks for others. Funding preferences also differ: NEETs would rely on personal savings, while those balancing study and work would explore diverse sources, including venture capital and incubator support for starting businesses. Our study enhances the understanding of entrepreneurial intentions among EU young people, offering insights that can guide more effective support strategies for fostering entrepreneurial success.
Low-profile double plating versus conventional single plating in midshaft clavicle fractures: A retrospective study and initial experience with this novel technique
Authors: Lecoultre Yannic , van de Wall Bryan , Link Bjoern-Christian , Kik Charlotte , Babst Reto , Beeres Frank
Published: January 2025

Background

Low-profile double plating seems a viable alternative to conventional single plating for fixation of midshaft clavicle fractures. This study aims to compare the two techniques regarding healing, complications, and removal rate.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included all patients >16 years that underwent plate fixation for midshaft clavicle fractures between 2020 and 2022 at one trauma-center. Exclusion criteria encompassed pathological or open fractures, refractures and delayed presentation or treatment more than 14 days after the accident. Patients were categorized into two treatment groups: Single plating (Synthes 3.5mm LCP superior / anterior or Synthes 2.7mm VA-LCP superior) and low-profile double plating (2.0 superior combined with either 2.4 or 2.7mm anterior mini-plate). Treatment groups were compared regarding healing, complications, and removal rate.

Results

A total of 99 patients were included: 74 in the single plating and 25 in the double plating group. Implant failures within the first three months were comparable in both groups (4.0% double plating versus 2.7% single, p = 0.744, of which one was caused by infection). Low-profile double plating had a significantly lower operation duration (95 versus 111 minutes, p = 0.019). Long-term follow-up data was available in 60 patients in the single plating and 20 in the double plating group. The need for reintervention was significantly lower in the double plating group (n = 5, 25.0% vs. n = 31, 51.7%, p = 0.038). These reinterventions were predominantly caused by implant irritation in both groups (n = 4, 20% double plating versus n = 29, 48.3% single plating, p = 0.026). All fractures healed in both groups.

Conclusion

Low-profile double plating attains comparable healing rates as single plating and has a significantly lower risk for re-intervention as well as a shorter operation duration. The lower reintervention rate is mainly explained by a lower incidence of implant irritation in the double plating group.
Impact of mergers and acquisitions on firms’ performance adjusted to business cycle fluctuations in China
Authors: Zhang Yi , Lin Tong , Qiao Yuanbo
Published: January 2025

This research mainly explored the effects of mergers and acquisitions (M&As) on the financial performance of Chinese listed companies and the determinants of post-M&A financial performance of mergers by incorporating adjustments for business cycle fluctuations. The research was divided into two parts. The first part applied data envelopment analysis (DEA) models for the calculation of the financial performance scores of mergers and non-mergers in six major sectors before and after M&As. Comparative analyses of financial performance trends between mergers and non-mergers in similar sectors revealed that M&As often decrease financial performance scores of mergers compared with non-mergers. The second part adopted regression analyses and robustness test to evaluate the effects of listing duration, financial leverage level, free cash flow and target type on post-M&A financial performance. The results showed that mergers’ sufficient listing duration, high financial leverages, adequate free cash flow and asset as target had significant positive impact on the post-M&A performance of mergers. Opposite to the free cash flow hypothesis, this study revealed that free cash flow is beneficial for mergers in China. These findings emphasized that lack of experience and managerial hubris are the primary factors contributing to the underperformance observed within the Chinese M&A market.
Physical climate risk: Stock price reactions to the historically most extreme European and United States heat waves since 1979
Authors: Schuster Mario , Krüger Julian , Lueg Rainer
Published: January 2025

Climate change has heightened the need to understand physical climate risks, such as the increasing frequency and severity of heat waves, for informed financial decision-making. This study investigates the financial implications of extreme heat waves on stock returns in Europe and the United States. Accordingly, the study combines meteorological and stock market data by integrating methodologies from both climate science and finance. The authors use meteorological data to ascertain the five strongest heat waves since 1979 in Europe and the United States, respectively, and event study analyses to capture their effects on stock prices across firms with varying levels of environmental performance. The findings reveal a marked increase in the frequency of heat waves in the 21st century, reflecting global warming trends, and that European heat waves generally have a higher intensity and longer duration than those in the United States. This study provides evidence that extreme heat waves reduce stock values in both regions, with portfolio declines of up to 3.1%. However, there are marked transnational differences in investor reactions. Stocks listed in the United States appear more affected by the most recent heat waves compared to those further in the past, whereas the effect on European stock prices is more closely tied to event intensity and duration. For the United States sample only, the analysis reveals a mitigating effect of high corporate environmental performance against heat risk. This study introduces an innovative interdisciplinary methodology, merging meteorological precision with financial analytics to provide deeper insights into climate-related risks.
The spatial biology of HIV infection
Authors: Hu Kevin , O’Neil Thomas R. , Baharlou Heeva , Austin Paul J. , Karrasch Jackson F. , Sarkawt Lara , Li Yuchen , Bertram Kirstie M. , Cunningham Anthony L. , Patrick Ellis , Harman Andrew N.
Published: January 2025

HIV infection implicates a spectrum of tissues in the human body starting with viral transmission in the anogenital tract and subsequently persisting in lymphoid tissues and brain. Though studies using isolated cells have contributed significantly towards our understanding of HIV infection, the tissue microenvironment is characterised by a complex interplay of a range of factors, all of which can influence the course of infection but are otherwise missed in ex vivo studies. To address this knowledge gap, it is necessary to investigate the dynamics of infection and the host immune response in situ using imaging-based approaches. Over the last decade, emerging imaging techniques have continually redefined the limits of detection, both in terms of the scope and the scale of the targets. In doing so, this has opened up new questions that can be answered by in situ studies. This review discusses the high-dimensional imaging modalities that are now available and their application towards understanding the spatial biology of HIV infection.
Experiencia mítica en la experiencia estética
Authors: Gómez Vaello Jorge
Published: January 2025

En el pensamiento mítico se dan poesía y arte plástico de un modo inmaterial, en cuanto a producción de imágenes y por cuanto se gesta indefinidamente el acto de creación en un eterno retorno y elocuencia del arquetipo. la relación de libertad y necesidad se da en la ilación de los mitemas como entre arte y naturaleza, como Schelling ya postulara. También como consciencia y no consciencia de la creación. en dichas relaciones se producen encuentros que generan belleza haciendo al mito estético e insondable, pues compete a la psiqué, a lo divino. Esta belleza se genera en elecciones de índole ética, acercándolo a la idea de bien. La carencia de hierofanías en el arte supone una intrascendencia artística que lo acerca más a lo circunstancial que a lo trascendental. Estas manifestaciones, más propias de un arte adherido o absorbido por el sistema sociopolítico actual, han perdido su carácter sagrado. La experiencia mítica ha sido en gran parte extirpada de la estética, resultando efímero y exento de la esencia que le es más propia.
La apertura disciplinar de la geografía española: un análisis del perfil formativo del profesorado universitario en geografía
Authors: García-Álvarez David , Pinos-Navarrete Aida
Published: January 2025

El sistema científico y universitario actual tiende hacia la interdisciplinariedad, con una amplia permeabilidad entre las viejas disciplinas constituidas en el siglo XIX. En tal contexto, es creciente la incorporación de profesorado universitario con un perfil formativo interdisciplinar, que implica una transformación de los tradicionales proyectos docentes e investigadores asociados a cada disciplina. La geografía española experimenta en la actualidad un acentuado proceso de renovación de su cuerpo de profesorado universitario, asimilando nuevos perfiles formativos que incentivan la transformación de la disciplina. A través de este artículo, se analiza el perfil formativo del profesorado en geografía en el sistema universitario español con el objetivo de analizar su evolución y la apertura disciplinar que ha tenido lugar en los últimos años. Los resultados ratifican un claro proceso de apertura de la geografía, con la incorporación de profesorado con bagajes formativos muy diversos. No obstante, la tendencia anterior muestra acusados contrastes en función de la universidad considerada. El artículo concluye con una discusión sobre las implicaciones que tal proceso puede tener en la conformación del futuro proyecto político e intelectual de la disciplina en España.
Conflicto y movimientos sociales en el litoral de la Comunitat Valenciana
Authors: Sánchez Cabrera José Vicente , Ferrandis Martínez Adrián
Published: January 2025

El litoral valenciano es un espacio geográfico muy cotizado, sometido a enormes presiones, que se presta al debate cuando el turismo se confunde con el negocio inmobiliario. El patrimonio territorial debería considerarse el verdadero atractivo que contribuya a impulsar un desarrollo más innovador y sostenible. Sin embargo, en su dinamismo socioeconómico surgen cambios muy rápidos que pueden ser traumáticos para la sociedad. Este trabajo presenta una primera geografía del conflicto social, cuando éste se acompaña de movilizaciones ciudadanas. El método de estudio parte de un inventario de casos conflictivos que permite una primera clasificación de los mismos. La taxonomía y cartografiado de los casos en los últimos cincuenta años, encuentra en el método inductivo el mejor acomodo científico. De igual manera, los resultados permiten interesantes debates sobre la influencia que pudieran tener los movimientos sociales en la toma de decisiones territorial. El trabajo se ancla en una amplia literatura científica de carácter multidisciplinar (geografía, sociología, derecho…). Los primeros hallazgos derivados de esta clasificación permiten pensar que el litoral ha sido escasamente reivindicado por la sociedad valenciana, mientras que las administraciones han actuado en ocasiones de forma dubitativa. De este modo, de los resultados finales obtenidos se deduce que la Comunitat Valenciana aporta el 21 % del territorio litoral del mediterráneo occidental y solo acredita un 14 % de los casos con movilización ciudadana. Además, solo la protección efectiva se acredita cuando se aprueba una figura vinculada a la red de Espacios Naturales Protegidos, acreditando el fracaso de los instrumentos territoriales y urbanísticos en esta comunidad autónoma. Estas posiciones dejan al litoral valenciano en una situación de vulnerabilidad alarmante.
COMUNICAÇÃO EM LIBRAS E A PRESENÇA DE PESSOAS SURDAS EM ESPAÇOS CULTURAIS DE FORTALEZA (CE):
Authors: Vieira Tamara
Published: January 2025

A presença de pessoas surdas em espaços de promoção cultural alcança complexidades subjetivas, linguísticas e políticas; que, neste caso, tem composto vivências minhas em Fortaleza. Com isto compartilho uma pesquisa-ação realizada na Pinacoteca do CE a fim de refletir sobre como marcadores sociais das diferenças como deficiência, língua, classe e raça; são acionados interseccionados com o marcador da surdez. Considero, ainda, que há uma diversidade e peculiaridades que distinguem pessoas surdas dos demais grupos de pessoas com deficiência – assim como dentro do próprio grupo de pessoas surdas, que são o uso de uma língua legitimada por lei, a ressignificação da deficiência como marca identitária e a luta pelo reconhecimento de uma cultura própria motivada por esses dois elementos anteriores. Posto isto, discuto aqui como a língua de sinais se articula com aspectos culturais de instituições a partir da presença de pessoas surdas nelas e dos marcadores que estas carregam.
Evaluation of the Performance of Automatic Temperature Control Technology in a Closed House Broiler Chicken Production System
Authors: Handayani DWI IRYANING , HARYONO HARYONO , Prihatinigsih Tri Prihatiningsih , Nuzul Hikmah
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This study evaluates the performance of automatic temperature control technologies in a closed-house system for broiler chicken production. Four key technologies were assessed: CTI 80, CTI Alpha, Punos, and Temptron, based on three main parameters: chicken mortality rate, growth (average final body weight), and production efficiency (Feed Conversion Ratio/FCR). Data were collected through direct observation, daily records, and final measurements on farms with a minimum population of 80,000 chickens per house. The statistical analysis revealed that CTI Alpha demonstrated the best performance with the lowest mortality rate (255 chickens) and high stability in temperature control. CTI 80 ranked second with performance close to CTI Alpha, followed by Punos. In contrast, Temptron exhibited the lowest performance with the highest mortality rate (595 chickens) and high data variability. The One-Way ANOVA test showed significant differences among the tested technologies (p < 0.05), while the Post Hoc Games-Howell analysis confirmed that CTI Alpha, CTI 80, and Punos performed significantly better than Temptron. This study recommends that farmers adopt CTI Alpha or CTI 80 technologies to optimize broiler chicken production. These technologies not only enhance productivity by reducing mortality rates but also support industry sustainability through resource efficiency and adaptability to climate change. This study provides valuable insights for farmers in selecting appropriate technologies tailored to their specific needs and contributes to the broader understanding of effective temperature control systems in broiler chicken farming.
Geolocalization and the birth-to-death distance
Authors: De la Croix David , Scebba Rossana
Published: January 2025

This note compares our experiences of manual vs programmatic geolocalization. As an application, we provide some results on the distance between place of birth and place of death of the RETE scholars, and showcase a map of RETE’s locations as birth sources and death attractors.
Projekt Evropského veřejného žalobce (Nová podoba mezinárodní justiční spolupráce v rámci členských států Evropské unie?)
Authors: Fenyk Jaroslav
Published: January 2025

The need to prosecute perpetrators of crime affecting the financial interests of the European Communities more effectively has Jed the Commission, Parliament to set up special experts’ teams for analysing possibilities of common rules for investigation, prosecution and trial in cases detrimental to financial interests of European Communities. Corpus Juris and Corpus Juris 2000 proposed establishing a European Public Prosecutor with responsibility in this field to remedy the fragmentary nature of the European criminal-law enforcement area.
The follow-up document – Green Paper on criminal-law protection of the financial interests of the Community and the establishment of a European Prosecutor, which was adopted on 11 December 2001, had two objectives: to clarify ideas and throw up options and preferences regarding ways of implementing the original proposal, and to open the debate to all circles concerned on the eve of enlargement and in view of the forthcoming constitutional review of the Treaties.
The European Constitution and Lisbon Treaty propose establishing the European Public Prosecutor from European Office for Judicial Co-operation (Eurojust) as a new level of international co-operation in judicial matters concerning of the protection of the financial interests of EC.
Účinky europeizace na postavení oběti a poškozeného v trestním řízení i mimo něj
Authors: Gřivna Tomáš
Published: January 2025

The problems of dealing with crime victims are covered in the Process of europeisation. The activities of the Council of Europe and of authorities of the EU affect the victim’s position in criminal proceedings, the extent of their rights and the protection of their interests. Under the resolutions of the Council of Europe, agreements (conventions) are the only form of legally binding documents. In matters of EU law, directives and framework decisions are the only instruments applicable to regulating the rights and interests of crime victims.
Europeisation is focused on two areas. The less problematic one seems to be the sphere of compensation of victims of violent crimes. Here it is necessary to keep in mind the European convention on the compensation of victims of violent crimes from the year 1983 and the Directive of EU Council relating to compensation to crime victims from the year 2004. The obligations are formulated definitely and specifically. The question of victim’s position in criminal proceedings is more problematic. The diversity of legal regulations in each particular state results in the problem of finding consensus regarding this topic. The legal instrument of harmonisation in this topic is the framework decision of EU Council on the standing of victims in criminal proceedings from the year 2001. The obligations are formulated less certainly and specifically, as they permit more exceptions.
The Czech legal regulation is in harmony with obligations both the Council of Europe and EU law regarding the compensation of victims. On the contrary the transposition of the framework decision on victims’ standing isn’t without problems. In particular, there are differences between Czech law and the framework decision in numerous areas: 1) Czech law doesn’t require state authorities to provide victims as much information as set forth in the framework decision (art. 4); 2) Czech law restricts the victims’ rights more than in the framework decision, by limiting certain rights only to victims, who are in the position of witness (art. 8); 3) Czech law is silent on the issue of specific rights of foreign victims, whereas framework decision lays down guidelines for such rights (art. 11). The European institutions may check whether the Czech law adopts the regulation and obligations arising from the framework decision. The European Court of Justice has previously adjudicated situations regarding harmonisation of EU laws in other foreign countries (especially judgement on the merits Pupino and on the merits Dell’Orto). It is necessary to make our legislation in conformity with the framework decision.
Synergistic effects of insecticides and lactic acid bacterial formulation on Plutella xylostella (L.) and beneficial coccinellids in cauliflower
Authors: Jayaveni M , Edward Y S J T , Suganthi A , Kannan M , Anandham R , Kannan R , Rakesh T
Published: January 2025

India, a leading producer of cauliflower, experiences up to 52 % yield loss due to defoliating caterpillars, particularly Plutella xylostella (L.). Epiphytic lactic acid bacteria (LAB), known for their role in plant microbiomes, are widely used in agriculture as biofertilizers, biocontrol agents and biostimulants. In this note, the present study focuses on the co-application of LAB formulation with insecticides emamectin benzoate 05 % SG, tolfenpyrad 15% EC, chlorantraniliprole 18.5 % SC on potted cauliflower plants in a screenhouse over two seasons to combat P. xylostella and assess the orientation behaviour of predators, particularly coccinellids. The results showed that leaf area damage by P. xylostella was significantly reduced in plants treated with chlorantraniliprole 18.5 % SC + LAB (5 %) (63.39-66.17 %), compared to chlorantraniliprole 18.5 % SC (60.82-63.08 %) and LAB (5 %) alone (25.45-29.05 %). Coccinellid abundance was higher in plants treated with LAB (5 %) alone (1.98-3.03 per four plants) than in those treated with insecticides and control plots. LAB density of both seasons showed a similar trend, with significantly higher values in plants treated with LAB alone (45.17 CFU/cm²) and chlorantraniliprole 18.5 % SC (41.39 CFU/cm²), compared to control plants (1.88 CFU/cm²).