bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis with Hybrid Nail-Plate Constructs: A Novel Technique for Treatment of Unstable Ankle & Hindfoot Deformities
Authors: Smith Carson J. , Boyer Braden , Bettin Clayton
Published: December 2023

Category:

Ankle; Hindfoot

Introduction/Purpose:

Tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) arthrodesis is a treatment option for several pathologies of the hindfoot and ankle. Traditional fixation options include intramedullary nailing or plate-screw constructs. In certain patients, for example when bone quality or post-operative compliance are of concern, more robust fixation may be desired. Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN) patients in particular often have complex deformities, poor bone quality, and impaired sensation. New trauma literature shows hybrid nail-plate constructs (NPCs) may permit early weight bearing in osteoporotic distal femur fractures. We report early results of TTC arthrodesis using NPCs in patients with complex deformities of the ankle and hindfoot.

Methods:

Patients undergoing TTC arthrodesis via intramedullary nail fixation plus plating by a single surgeon from September 2020 to December 2022 were included in our study. Indications included CN, post-traumatic deformities, and advanced arthritis. Age, comorbidities, Hemoglobin A1c, presence of an ulcer, implants, bone graft used, and postoperative complications were retrospectively recorded.

Results:

Fifteen patients met inclusion criteria. Six patients had CN; eight patients had post-traumatic complications; and one patient had an arthritic cavovarus deformity. Average age was 55 years (range 31-72). Eleven patients were treated with a lateral TTC locking plate; three were treated with an anterior tibiotalar arthrodesis plate; and one was treated with a 3.5mm reconstruction plate. All patients were treated with a TTC arthrodesis nail. In all cases, cellular bone matrix was used; in fourteen cases, autograft was also used. Average follow-up was 35 weeks (min. 12). Three patients underwent below-knee amputation, two for infection and the other for hardware failure. Two others required postoperative debridements but subsequently cleared their infections. Twelve patients have a stable, non-infected, ulcer free foot at latest follow-up.

Conclusion:

TTC arthrodesis can be used for a variety of indications, and many of these patients present complex challenges. Patients with CN in particular often have severe deformities and poor bone quality. Hybrid fixation methods provide added stability in complex cases, possibly allowing for more powerful deformity correction and earlier weight-bearing. We report a 80% favorable outcome rate in our case series, with major complications confined to patients with significant medical comorbidities (poorly controlled diabetes, peripheral vascular disease). We believe that TTC arthrodesis with hybrid nail-plate constructs represents an attractive solution to complex ankle and hindfoot deformities.
Unsatisfactory Outcomes After Conservative Treatment for Proximal Migration of Acute Calcaneal- Side Calcaneofibular Ligament Rupture in Athletes: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Kim Jin Su , Kim Sangbum
Published: December 2023

Category:

Ankle; Sports

Introduction/Purpose:

Acute ankle ligament rupture is usually treated conservatively. However, it sometimes progresses to chronic ankle instability. We suspected that there is a tendency for calcaneal-side calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) ruptures to progress to chronic ankle instability.

Methods:

Fourteen athletes with calcaneal-side CFL ruptures who were treated conservatively and followed for a mean period of 35.2 months were included in the study. Proximal migration of the stump of CFL (mm) was evaluated using magnetic resonance imaging at a 45° oblique coronal plane. A Stener lesion was defined as severe migration outside the peroneal tendon. The results of manual anterior drawer, varus stress tests, and stress radiographs at the initial and final follow-up visits were compared. The time to return to running, team training, and sporting competitions were recorded. At the final follow-up, patient satisfaction and Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) were used to assess ankle function.

Results:

The mean proximal migration of CFL was 11.2 mm. Four Stener lesions were found. However, neither proximal migration nor Stener lesions were significantly related to CAIT scores (rho = 0.288 and rho = 0.082, respectively) instability significantly decreased after conservative treatment from a mean grade of 2.0 to 1.4 in the anterior drawer test (P = 0.032). The varus stress test results showed a decrease from grade 2.2 to 1.8 (P = 0.053) without significance. Radiologically, decreases in anterior translation from 6.1 mm to 5.4 mm (P = 0.205) and talar tilt angles from 7.2° to 6.5° (P = 0.500) were observed without significance. It took 12.2, 14.7, and 18.0 weeks to return to running, team training, and sporting competitions. Seven athletes (50%) reported unsatisfactory results.

Conclusion:

Conservative treatment for CFL rupture with proximal migration was associated with poor outcomes in athletes.
Venous Thromboembolism: Assessing Risk Factors in Elective Foot and Ankle Surgery Patients
Authors: Heo Kevin Yunhao , Karzon Anthony , Bariteau Jason T. , Labib Sameh A. , Kadakia Rishin J. , Coleman Michelle
Published: December 2023

Category:

Midfoot/Forefoot; Ankle

Introduction/Purpose:

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) after foot and ankle surgery is a significant concern for patients and surgeons. The absence of guidelines for thromboprophylaxis in elective procedures underscores the importance of understanding risk factors. This study aimed to identify key risk factors of VTE in patients who underwent elective foot and ankle surgery, analyzing the rates based on the anatomical location of the surgery and the post-operative period.

Methods:

Data was collected from IBM MarketScan Database (2009-2019) for patients >18y without prior VTE who underwent elective foot/ankle surgery. Patients were divided into three groups based on region of surgery (forefoot, mid/hindfoot, lower leg/ankle), and VTE incidence was recorded 30- and 90-days post-surgery. Risk factors for VTE were identified through multivariate logistical regression analysis.

Results:

Among the 301,256 patients who underwent elective foot and ankle surgeries, the overall incidence of VTE within 90 days was 0.95%. The findings revealed that 31.8% of VTE incidents occurred within the first two weeks after surgery, and 29.2% still occurred after 6 weeks. An analysis of the anatomical region of surgery demonstrated that the lowest rate of VTE was amongst patients undergoing forefoot surgery (0.70%). There was a higher incidence and risk for VTE in patients undergoing midfoot/hindfoot surgery (1.22%, OR = 1.75) and lower leg/ankle surgery (1.76%, OR= 2.53). Additional risk factors for VTE included thrombophilia (OR = 5.06), male sex (OR = 1.43), increasing age (OR > 1.25), and a high Charlson Comorbidity Index (OR < 0.82 for scores < 5).

Conclusion:

This study identifies the incidence and timing for VTE after elective foot and ankle surgery. Furthermore, this study defines the risk factors associated with increased odds of VTE after elective foot and ankle surgeries. These findings are helpful in educating patients about a continued risk for VTE throughout the 90-day postoperative period. These results can also be utilized to stratify patients who need thromboprophylaxis based on the individual risk level.
Weight-bearing CT Scan Analysis in Hallux Valgus Surgery: Comparison between Open (Scarf) and Minimally Invasive (MIBA) Techniques
Authors: Ahumada Ximena , Chaparro Felipe , Pellegrini Manuel J. , Carcuro Giovanni , Protasowicki Nicolas , Ortiz Cristian A.
Published: December 2023

Category:

Bunion; Midfoot/Forefoot

Introduction/Purpose:

Hallux valgus (HV) is one of the most prevalent foot deformities. Coronal metatarsal rotation (pronation) has been recognized as a key element in HV deformity and an important prognostic factor for recurrence. With the advent of weight-bearing CT (WBCT), accurate pronation measurement has improved. The Minimally Invasive Bosh Akin (MIBA) surgery has proven to be effective in treating HV deformity. Literature comparing MIBA radiological correction with traditional open techniques (scarf osteotomy) is lacking.

Purpose:

To compare the transverse and coronal plane deformity correction by WBCT in HV patients treated with open vs MIS technique.

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed HV deformity in patients who underwent Scarf and MIBA surgery with preoperative and at least 3 months postoperative WBCT for comparison. Intermetatarsal angle (IMA), hallux valgus angle (HVA), and alpha angle (AA) for first metatarsal pronation was measured by 2 different observers. Pre and postoperative measurement changes were established by T-test for related samples. the p-value for statistical significance was set at < 0.05.

Results:

40 feet included. The mean preop IMA in scarf was 13.1, and 13.6 in MIBA (p= 0.7). Mean postop IMA in scarf was 4.9, and 6.8 in MIBA (p < 0.05). The mean preop HVA in scarf was 25, 28.7 in MIBA (p=0.1). Mean postop HVA in scarf was 5.9, 13.1 in MIBA (p < 0.05). Mean preop AA in scarf was 8.9, 8.9 in MIBA (p= 0.6). Mean postop AA in scarf was 6.3, 6.9 in MIBA (p=0.7). All feet had a significant improvement of IMA and HVA pre and postop (p < 0,005). Scarf preop AA was 8.9 and 6.3 postop, which is a pronation change of -2.5 (p < 0.05). MIBA preop AA was 8.9 and 6.9 postop, which is a pronation change of -2 (p=0.054).

Conclusion:

To the best of our knowledge, this is the only study that compares WBCT correction between Scarf and MIBA surgery. Both osteotomies have a significant power to correct transverse deformity, scarf corrects significantly better than MIBA when analyzing HVA and IMA. The scarf has a significant power to correct pronation, whereas MIBA shows a strong tendency.
An Adaptive Crack Width Prediction for Flexural Steel Reinforced UHPC Beams
Authors: Zhu Yanping , Zhang Yang , Yuan Xinzhe , Hou Changgui
Published: December 2023

The crack pattern of steel reinforced ultrahigh performance concrete (UHPC) beam is usually characterized by many densely distributed fine cracks (i.e., multiple microcracks) along with localized macrocrack, and the crack width development rate along the beam height is smaller than that of normal concrete since steel fibers and steel reinforcement bars are supposed to be effective in controlling crack width propagation of the UHPC beam. However, an effective crack width prediction formula is still underdeveloped for steel reinforced UHPC beam. The present study aims to formulate a crack width prediction equation based on the equations in Chinese code GB50010 where the parameters can be regressed and calibrated. Ten UHPC beams with different steel fiber volumes and reinforcing ratios are experimentally tested to collect crack width and spacing data for comparison and validation purposes. Nonuniformity distribution coefficient of rebar strain and average crack spacing are calibrated by the test data. Also, rebar stress is calculated with considering residual tensile strength of UHPC based on a sectional analysis. The modified crack width equation is validated with the test results, showing the best prediction accuracy of 0.97 and standard deviation of 0.11 for the test beams in this study compared to those predicted by JTG 3362, CECS 38, MC and AFGC. This study is emphasizing crack width prediction and control in designing UHPC structures.
Crucial Roles of the Mesenchymal Androgen Receptor in Wolffian Duct Development
Authors: Wilbourne Jillian , Jia Shuai , Fogarty Allyssa , Takaku Motoki , Zhao Fei
Published: December 2023

Wolffian duct (WD) maintenance and differentiation is predominantly driven by the androgen action, which is mediated by the androgen receptor (AR). It is well established that the mesenchyme indicates the fate and differentiation of epithelial cells. However, in vivo developmental requirement of mesenchymal AR in WD development is still undefined. By designing a mesenchyme-specific Ar knockout (ARcKO), we discovered that the loss of mesenchymal Ar led to the bilateral or unilateral degeneration of caudal WDs and cystic formation at the cranial WDs. Ex vivo culture of ARcKO WDs invariably resulted in bilateral defects, suggesting that some factor(s) originating from surrounding tissues in vivo might promote WD survival and growth even in the absence of mesenchymal Ar. Mechanistically, we found cell proliferation was significantly reduced in both epithelial and mesenchymal compartments; but cell apoptosis was not affected. Transcriptomic analysis by RNA sequencing of E14.5 mesonephroi revealed 131 differentially expressed genes. Multiple downregulated genes (Top2a, Wnt9b, Lama2, and Lamc2) were associated with morphological and cellular changes in ARcKO male embryos (ie, reduced cell proliferation and decreased number of epithelial cells). Mesenchymal differentiation into smooth muscle cells that are critical for morphogenesis was also impaired in ARcKO male embryos. Taken together, our results demonstrate the crucial roles of the mesenchymal AR in WD maintenance and morphogenesis in mice.
Antipolitics: Populism (Not) in Ancient Athens
Authors: Cartledge Paul
Published: December 2023

As part of the Common Knowledge symposium “Antipolitics” — which concerns the present confrontation and confusion of democracy and populism — this essay begins from the observation that populism is a word of Latin, not Greek, derivation. The Roman populus did not have the independent democratic power of the Athenian demos, though both words can be translated as “people.” Whereas today, in representative democracies, the conflict of populism and democracy can and does do serious damage to the latter, under the regime of ancient Greek direct-democracy populism was more a demon fantasy, conjured by its diehard, oligarchic opponents, such as Plato, than a real, viable alternative mode of doing democratic politics. Thus, ancient Greek political history has its limits as a guide through our present troubles.
Dissection of protein and RNA regions required for SPEN binding to XIST A-repeat RNA
Authors: Button Aileen C. , Hall Simone D. , Ashley Ethan L. , McHugh Colleen A.
Published: December 2023

XIST noncoding RNA promotes the initiation of X chromosome silencing by recruiting the protein SPEN to one X chromosome in female mammals. The SPEN protein is also called SHARP (SMRT and HDAC-associated repressor protein) and MINT (Msx-2 interacting nuclear target) in humans. SPEN recruits N-CoR2 and HDAC3 to initiate histone deacetylation on the X chromosome, leading to the formation of repressive chromatin marks and silencing gene expression. We dissected the contributions of different RNA and protein regions to the formation of a human XIST–SPEN complex in vitro and identified novel sequence and structure determinants that may contribute to X chromosome silencing initiation. Binding of SPEN to XIST RNA requires RRM 4 of the protein, in contrast to the requirement of RRM 3 and RRM 4 for specific binding to SRA RNA. Measurements of SPEN binding to full-length, dimeric, trimeric, or other truncated versions of the A-repeat region revealed that high-affinity binding of XIST to SPEN in vitro requires a minimum of four A-repeat segments. SPEN binding to XIST A-repeat RNA changes the accessibility of the RNA at specific nucleotide sequences, as indicated by changes in RNA reactivity through chemical structure probing. Based on computational modeling, we found that inter-repeat duplexes formed by multiple A-repeats can present an unpaired adenosine in the context of a double-stranded region of RNA. The presence of this specific combination of sequence and structural motifs correlates with high-affinity SPEN binding in vitro. These data provide new information on the molecular basis of the XIST and SPEN interaction.
Coursework on engineering graphics as the first design experience
Authors: Markova Tat'yana , Bochkov Andrey , Kokorin M. , Nikitina T.
Published: December 2023

One of the priorities for higher education and the country as a whole today is serious engineering education. Geometric and graphic disciplines are the first ones directly related to the specialty in the curricula of any technical field of training. The extent of this stage cannot be underestimated: they carry out the required program work, students study the rules and modern means of developing design documents, and receive basic knowledge to continue mastering specialized courses.

However, simply knowing the standards or being able to work with computer-aided design tools to solve engineering problems is not enough. A design engineer is a creator, an inventor. This means that one of the main tasks of teachers is to form a systematic technical, design thinking based on developed spatial imagination, the ability to think comprehensively, logically and creatively, and manifested in the ability to take specific actions to solve emerging problems and tasks, make decisions to achieve a specific result in the form of a technical product, a finished design based on the selected technology.

This article explores the possibilities of including design elements in educational tasks at the initial stage of training students of mechanical engineering specialties. A description of the course work carried out in the third semester as part of the engineering graphics course at Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University is presented.

According to the assignment, students develop design documentation for the product according to the diagram, description of the operating principle of the device and drawings of the main parts, make, if necessary, changes to the design to increase the manufacturability of parts and assembly and improve the technical and consumer properties of the product, and one of the parts, as directed teacher, is replaced by a welded assembly unit.

The article sets the goals and objectives of the work, describes the stages of implementation and the role of the teacher, and also developed a training manual to ensure independent work of students. An assessment was made of the first experience of using the technique. Conclusions and recommendations are presented.
Detralex and detragel drugs in the treatment of chronic venous disease
Authors: Novikova Mariya
Published: December 2023

Chronic venous disease is one of the most discussed diagnoses in surgery and occurs in about 25-50% of the adult population. The high prevalence of chronic venous disease in our country underlines the importance of accurate and modern diagnosis of this pathology, the need to use treatment technologies that can be applied as widely as possible, not only by cardiovascular doctors, phlebologists, but also specialists in general surgery and even doctors of other specialties. The Detralex line of drugs was created for the treatment of venous diseases: varicose veins and hemorrhoids. Detralex helps to relieve pain, swelling and heaviness in the legs in chronic venous disease, and in addition, helps to eliminate the symptoms of both acute and chronic hemorrhoids: discomfort, pain and bleeding.
GENETICALLY ENGINEERED BIOLOGICAL THERAPY IN ONCOLOGY (literature review)
Authors: Mamedova S.
Published: December 2023

The main advantage of targeted therapy for cancer is the unique ability to mobilize the body's own immune system. Stimulation of the immune response leads to activation of internal protective functions that prevent angiogenesis and apoptosis of cancer cells. In addition, drugs that modify the biological reaction accelerate the process of tissue regeneration and the replacement of pathogenic cells with genetically normal ones.
"MY BEARD IS MY OWN”: HERMAN MELVILLE’S BEARD POETICS IN HIS NARRATIVES OF MARITIME MASCULINITY.
Authors: Ferry Peter
Published: December 2023

This article celebrates the vital role of the beard in Herman Melville’s narratives of maritime masculinity. While the limited commentary on the beard has thus far focused on the hair on Melville’s face, this article shifts the focus to the beard on the page of Melville’s early texts to explicate the nuances in Melville’s developing beard poetics. These appear first in Typee (1846), Omoo (1847), and Mardi (1849), three texts which begin with the traditional idea of the beard as a symbol of native Otherness before introducing the symbolic power of the braided beard and setting out the importance of the beard in male homosocial relations. This final strand is key in Melville’s most sociologically charged writings, no more so than in White-Jacket (1850). From the communal cultivation of the beards on board the Neversink, to the tragic events of “The Great Massacre of the Beards,” White-Jacket displays an acute awareness of the discourses of hegemony, hierarchy, power, and authority that underscores the power of the beard in the performativity of masculinity of Melville’s characters on the sea
De la señorita Sofía a Heini: un estudio genealógico de los personajes femeninos en la obra de Ding Ling
Authors: Peng Yuyun
Published: December 2023

El propósito de este trabajo es realizar una investigación genealógica sobre los personajes femeninos que Ding Ling ha plasmado entre 1927 y 1948. Basándonos en un estudio previo del contexto socio-político y de las experiencias vitales de la escritora, intentaremos examinar y analizar las imágenes femeninas más representativas en sus diferentes periodos escriturales, con el objetivo de revelar la vinculación existente que conecta de forma diacrónica a las mujeres bajo la pluma de la escritora, desde la señorita Sofía que recurrió a la soledad como su último refugio, hasta la campesina Heini cuya voz se silenció en el clamor del público. Además, buscaremos iluminar las observaciones feministas de la escritora acerca del destino colectivo de las mujeres en la cambiante China, reflejado a lo largo de sus 20 años de creación literaria.
Violación y resistencia en ‘‘Fang Si-Chi’s first love paradise’’
Authors: Zhang Tianzi
Published: December 2023

Este artículo estudia la única obra que la autora taiwanesa Lin Yihan (1991-2017) publicó en vida: Fang Si-Chi’s First Love Paradise (2017). Esta novela semiautobiográfica sobre la traumática experiencia de una chica violada ha suscitado un intenso debate en China, donde el despertar de la conciencia femenina es cada vez más evidente. En este trabajo se analiza el modo en que el agresor utiliza la disparidad de estatus para construir la mentira de la violación a fin de controlar a las mujeres y, así, poder ejercer la violencia sexual, así como la manera en que la protagonista es “asesinada” por la sociedad bajo la influencia de los discursos sociales creados por las asimetrías de poder entre los géneros. Además, a través de su enfoque en el sujeto femenino, la investigación señala el daño sufrido por las mujeres en la violación y su agencia para hacer frente al trauma. Este artículo sostiene que el uso que la autora hace de la literatura transforma esta obra en un libro de resistencia, que llama la atención sobre el sujeto femenino, socavado y controlado por el poder del discurso dominado por los hombres. Su objetivo es provocar una reflexión sobre la sociedad patriarcal tradicional.
Política de hijo único en las novelas españolas: las madres que abandonan a sus hijas
Authors: Peng Yuyun
Published: December 2023

Este artículo se propone ofrecer una perspectiva sobre los imaginarios sociales de las madres chinas presentes en novelas españolas, al examinar la representación cultural de estas figuras en el contexto de la política del hijo único. Se focaliza en dos novelas específicas: En busca del hilo rojo de Collado, publicada en 2011, y 1de Rivera, publicada en 2012. Utilizando las teorías de imaginarios sociales, representación cultural y orientalismo, se analiza cómo estas novelas retratan a las mujeres chinas como víctimas pasivas en lugar de autoras activas del abandono de sus hijas. Además, se destaca la construcción de una imagen despiadada del Partido Comunista Chino (PCCh), centrándose en los traumas físicos y mentales experimentados por las madres debido a la implementación de la política mencionada. En este contexto, la familia de los esposos se representa como cómplice de los sufrimientos de las mujeres, a través de la opresión patriarcal. Por eso, el análisis presta atención a la perspectiva orientalista reflejada en la representación literaria y las implicaciones de la intervención occidental al abordar los problemas chinos.
Empleo de recursos léxicos con valor intensificador en la literatura juvenil contemporánea: análisis del discurso de los personajes femeninos de Laura Gallego
Authors: García Monserrat Francisco Javier
Published: December 2023

Este artículo pretende poner en relieve la relación existente entre el discurso de las mujeres y los estereotipos de género que tradicionalmente han imperado en nuestra sociedad, así como la manera en la que estos pueden manifestarse en un intercambio comunicativo. Las diferencias en los procesos de interacción social entre personas de distinto género, el análisis de los mecanismos lingüísticos utilizados por cada uno de los géneros, y el efecto que su utilización puede producir en el contrario, nos proporcionarán las bases necesarias para establecer el nivel de estereotipos existente en una obra de Literatura Juvenil contemporánea. Para ello, se ha decidido estudiar los efectos de la cortesía en los actos de habla directivos entre los personajes de las obras de la autora Laura Gallego, centrándonos especialmente en el empleo de los mecanismos lingüísticos de intensificación.
Mito, creencia y discriminación de la mujer en la sociedad esmeraldera colombiana.
Authors: Villamil Wilson
Published: December 2023

El objetivo del presente artículo es analizar el modelo de mujer ideal en el mito de Fura y Tena y su impacto cultural en la mina de esmeraldas en San Pablo de Borbur, Colombia, se utilizará un análisis con perspectiva de género. La esmeralda significó conexión entre espíritu, cuerpo y naturaleza para las culturas indígenas que habitaron el lugar. Sin embargo, la explotación minera posterior generó desigualdades de género, ya que las labores eran realizadas mayormente por hombres. El mito de Fura y Tena, centrado en la traición de Fura y su castigo, se convirtió en una narrativa que estigmatizó a las mujeres en la minería. A lo largo de la historia, las mujeres fueron excluidas de esta actividad, asociándolas con la mala suerte y la infertilidad para las vetas. Aunque algunas mujeres han ingresado a la minería recientemente, persisten estigmas y discriminación.
Educar en Artes Visuales. Estrategias didácticas mediante la interpretación y análisis de un cuadro de Velázquez.
Authors: Abad de los Santos Belén
Published: December 2023

En este texto se acomete una revisión de la literatura científica en torno a una serie de innovaciones estructurales introducidas por Velázquez a partir del cuadro Cristo en casa de Marta y María (1618). Con el objeto de dilucidar los mensajes implícitos que encierra la enigmática iconografía velazqueña de juventud, se efectuará un análisis interpretativo de esta obra, en particular, desde su estudio semiótico a través del plano de la expresión y del plano del contenido como estrategia didáctica. El formato compositivo empleado por el pintor sevillano en esta creación, que habría de invertir las convecciones narrativas pictóricas al encuadrar el espacio contenido en la escena religiosa, visto a través de una ventana, detrás de la temática contemporánea de las figuras y los objetos del primer plano, reflejará la singularidad de las producciones pertenecientes a la etapa inicial del maestro. Al estudiar su articulación interna se pretende demostrar que la decodificación del mensaje integral de la pintura pudiera ser tan válido en su lectura visual, lo mismo que la selección de una unidad estratégica como el motivo de la ventana con tema bíblico. Precisamente, este fragmento enmarcado parece contener la clave para interpretar el significado del cuadro.
Y llegó a la Corte… Sebastián Martínez tras los pasos de Diego Velázquez.
Authors: Mantas Fernández Rafael
Published: December 2023

El Museo pictórico y escala óptica aportó una breve, pero interesante, información sobre la estancia de Sebastián Martínez Domedel en la Corte de Felipe IV. Según Antonio Palomino, este acontecimiento se produjo en 1660, tras la muerte de Diego Velázquez. El presente trabajo contextualiza la actividad productiva del pintor giennense antes de su llegada a Madrid. Posteriormente, analiza las noticias recogidas por el tratadista natural de Bujalance sobre la presencia del pintor en la Corte y su relación con el monarca. Por último, examina el enriquecimiento de su estilo al entrar en contacto con las obras de los grandes maestros de la pintura que formaban parte de las colecciones reales
Los rostros perdidos de Velázquez.
Authors: Jiménez Llamas Carlos
Published: December 2023

Velázquez es un pintor universal, referente de la pintura española del siglo XVII y del barroco europeo. La destreza del pintor ha sido siempre demostrada por los críticos e historiadores del arte a lo largo de cuatro siglos. En este artículo, exploraremos algunos rostros perdidos de Velázquez poniendo como ejemplos algunos cuadros. Desentrañaremos la maestría con la que retrató de forma especial a algunos personajes en éstos. Nos adentraremos de una forma superficial en el análisis de dónde se encuentran esa característica y por qué ha pasado siempre desapercibida para el espectador, siendo siempre un motivo secundario de observación que se convierte en una técnica muy usada por el pintor.
‘We need to be able to understand and critique what we do and read’
Authors: Allingham Sue
Published: December 2023

Sue Allingham, author, trainer and consultant, discusses some of the latest news stories and headlines about the sector, encouraging practitioners to consider the what, why and how of our practice and provision.
Early years education recovery
Authors: Cowley Sue
Published: December 2023

The DfE has developed various schemes as part of its ‘education recovery’ package, designed to address the impact of the pandemic on children in EYFS. Sue Cowley examines the options available to practitioners and settings, and considers whether the DfE's package has achieved the right focus to best support the sector.
‘The expansion does not improve things for children from more disadvantaged backgrounds’
Authors: O'Sullivan June
Published: December 2023

Recent analysis by The Guardian revealed the number of not-for-profit nurseries in England's most-deprived areas has fallen sharply, with experts warming this will mean poorer families will be “locked out” of a big expansion in free nursery hours. June O'Sullivan OBE, CEO of the London Early Years Foundation, responds to this and shares what could be done to reverse the situation.
Employee Training Policies of High Revenue Companies: Analysis of Case Examples From Turkey
Authors: Balkar Betül , Karadağ Nazife
Published: December 2023

Purpose: The present study explores the primary characteristics of employee training practices by way of analysing the employee training policies of the top two companies with the highest sales revenue in Turkey. The primary characteristics of employee training practices are examined within the scope of the corporate employee training activities and the practices to cope with the challenges in the organization of employee training. Methods: Employing qualitative approach, document analysis was conducted within the context of two cases. The two companies with the highest sales revenue in Turkey were selected as cases in the study. The companies were determined through criterion sampling in line with the financial performance based on net sales revenue, stability of financial performance and potential for corporate training policy development criteria. The six years of sustainability and activity reports of the companies were analysed through thematic analysis. The documents were analysed through thematic analysis using open coding. Employee training policies and practices were presented under the sub-themes of personnel training types, subjects of personnel training, training infrastructure, factors considered in the design of training processes and supportive practices for training processes. Findings: Employee training of the companies mostly consists of formal and non-formal training activities designed according to the needs of employees. These training activities aim at both occupational and personal development of the employees. The training activities, which are mostly organized with the use of internal resources, also allow employees to make their own personal development plans. The dominant common aspects of the employee training policies of the companies show that the successful integration of employee training to the career management systems increases the efficiency of training activities. The study results also illustrate that the employee training policies can be strengthened through corporate capacity development activities. Conclusion: Institutionalization of training practices that contribute to workplace learning has an important role in the financial gains of highly competitive organizations. The success of corporate training practices for employees requires both an effective design in terms of content and process and a strong establishment of corporate training infrastructure. The provision of formal and informal learning opportunities structured according to employee needs through a strong corporate training infrastructure and planning the career development of employees based on the outputs of training activities are the indicators of successful company performance.
‘I don’t feel like a classic rights defender’: rights subjectivities and disidentification in Russian disability organising
Authors: Mullins Philippa
Published: December 2023

Drawing on in-depth interviews, this article investigates how Russian civil society actors organising around disability understand and use human rights discourses. It asks whether and how these actors mobilise distinctions between social and political human rights. It argues that civil society actors perceive the Russian State as legitimising social action and delegitimising political action. However, these actors also disidentify with this binary division by taking a third position; they identify their apparently social work as forming another kind of politics, different from that dominantly perceived as political. The article thus identifies a non-apparent or infra-political strategy by which political organising evades perception as political through the dominant depoliticisation of social rights. Actors instrumentalise this dominant perception to continue to engage in work which they identify as political, thus repoliticising the social sphere.
At whose cost? Racialised differences in how domestic violence and sexual violence advocates adapted to COVID-19
Authors: Taha Selma , Kelly Liz
Published: December 2023

Much of the research on COVID-19 and violence against women and girls (VAWG) has focused on the impacts on victim-survivors or on organisations offering support. This qualitative study aimed at documenting the coping strategies of, and the impacts on, support workers, specifically domestic and sexual violence advocates (independent domestic violence advisor [IDVA] and independent sexual violence advisors [ISVA]), in two London based organisations. The findings revealed a double load of supporting others while coping with the impacts of the pandemic on themselves and their families. An unanticipated but revealing finding was that the conjunction of the pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement made visible and visceral the daily work that Black women do to manage everyday racism, including in the VAWG sector. For these women ‘returning to normal’ was an unwelcome and unacceptable prospect, making anti-racism work in the VAWG sector an urgent priority.
Digital coding THz dynamical multi-band perfect absorber via graphene/diamond metasurface
Authors: Wang Hongxing , Zhang Shaowei , Wen Feng , Zhai Muhua , Li Zheng , Ye Huapeng , Zhang Hengxi , Gu Yangxin , Lei Yang , Zhang Yanpeng
Published: December 2023

The monolayer graphene-based terahertz (THz) perfect absorber has made significant progress in switchable devices with diverse functionalities. However, the prior approaches to achieving switchability rely on either multi-layered metasurface with complex configuration or complicated patterned metasurface. A switchable absorber that uses tunable materials to switch between n-band and m-band modes is also intriguing but has not yet been reported. Here, a dynamically switchable multi-band perfect absorber with a digital coding graphene metasurface is proposed and demonstrated. By integrating multiple metasurface units with different Fermi levels into a newly generated period, we realize a multi-band perfect absorber with a rather simple and straightforward configuration composed of patterned metasurface. Through introducing a digital coding metasurface into the perfect absorber, we successfully use the digital signals from FPGA to convert n-band to m-band absorption modes. Moreover, the results reveal that the THz perfect absorber, possessing a great impedance matching with the free space, has excellent angle tolerance and robustness. Such a perfect absorber offers a flexible tool for selecting THz channels and may pave the way for the 6th generation communication.
Aplicación de los principios de la teoría cognitiva del aprendizaje multimedia al diseño de situaciones de aprendizaje y escenarios de formación
Authors: Betancur-Chicué Viviana , García-Valcárcel Muñoz-Repiso Ana
Published: December 2023

La teoría cognitiva del aprendizaje multimedia (TCAM) ha impulsado el desarrollo de múltiples estudios en torno a cómo diseñar materiales y escenarios que logren un verdadero aprendizaje. Teniendo en cuenta estas características, el artículo realiza una revisión de la literatura para identificar las áreas de conocimiento en las que se vienen realizando estudios basados en la TCAM, así como los principales hallazgos a los que han llegado. Para esto, se utiliza una metodología de revisión sistemática de la literatura basada en el estudio de artículos de investigación entre 2018 y 2021 seleccionados a través de Scopus y Web of Science. Se concluye que las áreas donde más se ha explorado el uso de la TCAM ha sido la enseñanza de idiomas (inglés y mandarín), la medicina (combina especialidades médicas y enfermería), la ingeniería (civil, de sistemas, eléctrica) y la geografía. Entre los principales hallazgos se identifican los principios más utilizados, como el de redundancia, señalización y coherencia; se valida la importancia de aplicar los principios de la TCAM en el diseño de materiales y situaciones de aprendizaje para lograr efectos asociados a la reducción de la carga cognitiva. Los estudios resaltan la importancia de su manejo por parte de docentes y diseñadores instruccionales, la relevancia de considerar su aplicación en el diseño de videos educativos y la necesidad de tener en cuenta las condiciones de los estudiantes a los que se dirige la formación.
Variations in Practice Among Cirrhotic Patients With Portal Vein Thrombosis and Esophageal Varices: A North American Survey Study
Authors: Mui Brandon G. , Grinspan Lauren T. , Crismale James F.
Published: December 2023

INTRODUCTION:

There exists variation regarding the approach to anticoagulation and variceal hemorrhage (VH) prophylaxis among patients with cirrhosis and portal vein thrombosis (PVT).

METHODS:

A survey was distributed to gastroenterology and hepatology providers to assess the approach to anticoagulation and VH prophylaxis among patients with PVT in cirrhotic patients.

RESULTS:

Providers were more likely to start anticoagulation if the patient was listed for liver transplantation, was symptomatic, or had superior mesenteric vein thrombosis. For prevention of first VH, many providers opt for combination therapy with both nonselective beta blockers and variceal ligation.

DISCUSSION:

Although providers agree on the clinical scenarios that merit initiation of anticoagulation, practice variation was identified in the means of preventing first VH.
Simulation Model of Obstacle Detection and Mapping System for AUVs
Authors:   Akademia Marynarki Wojennej, Gdynia, Kot Rafał , Piskur Paweł , Sigiel Norbert
Published: December 2023

This article presents a real-time model of an obstacle detection and environmental mapping system based on image processing for an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV). The model was based on Tritech Micron Sonar operating parameters with mechanical beam adjustment. The operation of the detection system was verified using a mathematical model of an autonomous underwater vehicle moving in the underwater environment, expressed by a test map prepared based on actual measurements of the above-mentioned sonar. The system model allows for detecting and mapping obstacles in the sonar’s field of view in real-time.
Characterization of Thermographic Covert Channel
Authors:   Wojskowa Akademia Techniczna, Warszawa, Sawicki Krzysztof , Bieszczad Grzegorz , Sosnowski Tomasz , Mścichowski Mariusz
Published: December 2023

The paper presents a method for determining the characteristics of the information capacity of a thermographic covert communication channel made of a heat radiator (technical black body) and a thermal camera. The determined characteristics are an additional parameter describing these devices in the context of their non-obvious use for data transmission.
Inventiveness Aided by Artificial Intelligence and Patent Protection in Polish and European Law. A Comparative Perspective
Authors:   Uniwersytet Warszawski, Szkaradek Michał , Telenga Justyna ,   Uniwersytet Marii Skłodowskiej-Curie w Lublinie
Published: December 2023

The article scrutinises the intricate interplay between artificial intelligence (AI) and patent jurisprudence. According to the authors, while inventions conventionally qualify for patent protection, those predominantly or entirely conceived by AI fall outside the purview of extant Polish and European legislative frameworks. The article delineates the parameters of AI and explicates the criteria for patentability, accentuating that inventions engendered by AI present a conundrum for the prevailing legal paradigms.
Dan Healey: 'Russian Homophobia from Stalin to Sochi' (2016) Book Review
Authors: Robinson Joshua Paul
Published: December 2023

Investigative, lucid, and fiercely self-aware, Dan Healey’s 2016 book Russian Homophobia: From Stalin to Sochi represents a much-needed and comprehensive queer history of how Russian state homophobia has shaped queer men’s subjectivies in the soviet and post-soviet period. Healey’s primary contention is that Russian homophobia is not some predisposition inherent in Russian society, but has its historically-specific origins embedded within the politics of the 1930s. This serves as an urgent rebuke to the Kremlin’s contemporary ‘politics of homophobia’ that falsely render LGBTQ+ lives un-Russian, and same-sex relations as an ideology implanted forcefully and artificially onto ‘traditional’ Christian Russia from the West.
Analysis of The Influence of Information Quality, Ease of Use, and Trust on Online Purchase Decisions on Shopee (Research On Users Of The Shopee E-Commerce Platform At Muhammadiyah University Yogyakarta)
Authors: Inggaris Agil Fatasyan , Wibowo Sutrisno
Published: December 2023

Research Aims: This study aims to analyze of the influence of information quality, ease of use, and trust on online purchase decisions on shopee (study of shopee.co.id buying and selling site users at yogyakarta muhammadiyah university).
Methodology: The study employs a quantitative survey approach, targeting all students, particularly female students, at Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta. The sample comprises 100 respondents from the Faculty of Economics and Business. The data analysis involves Multiple Linear Regression, Simultaneous Significance Test (F Test), Individual Parameter Significance Test (t-test), and Coefficient of Determination Analysis (R²).
Research Findings: The findings indicate a notable and positive impact of information quality, ease of use, and mutual trust on online purchasing decisions at Shopee. Specifically, information quality, ease of use, and trust each individually exhibit a significant positive influence on online purchasing decisions at Shopee.
Theoretical Contribution: The theoretical contribution of this research lies in its comprehensive assessment of multiple factors and their individual impacts on online purchasing decisions. The study enriches existing theoretical frameworks related to e-commerce and consumer behavior, paving the way for more nuanced and context-specific investigations in the field.
Implication: The implications suggest actionable steps for Shopee to enhance its online platform, build trust, and tailor strategies to influence information quality, ease of use, and trust for more effective online purchasing decisions.
EXAMINING NETIZENS' VIEWS ON INDONESIAN MUSLIM CELEBRITIES’ WILDLIFE FASHION ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Authors: Rasyid Mufti
Published: December 2023

This study examines social media users' views on Indonesian Muslim celebrities' who use wild animal materials in fashion. Using a descriptive qualitative method, the researcher utilized Teun van Dijk's critical discourse analysis, which consists of three levels: text level (microstructure), social cognition (superstructure), and social context (macrostructure). The subject of this research was Instagram accounts and YouTube videos of Angel Lelga, Ola Ramlan, and Syahrini wearing wild-animal fashion items. The results found that in the microstructure level, the comments' word choices, emphasis, and details represent commenters' background, intention, and presumption, mostly influenced by halal-lifestyle. In the superstructure level, it can be concluded that most netizens do not understand animal welfare issues sufficiently. Meanwhile, in the  macrostructure, the researcher underlines the notion of power and access, which enables Indonesian Muslims to create a discourse on the halal lifestyle without concerning animal welfare. However, the awareness of animal welfare is also noteworthy, although not significant.
MAPPING INDONESIAN WEB SERIES THEMES: INSIGHTS INTO OVER THE TOP CONTENT DIVERSITY
Authors: Srimayasandy Syahyuni , Pathia Laelatul
Published: December 2023

The ease of internet access in Indonesia is increasing. This encourages content production on the internet to grow as well, including producing original web series broadcast on over-the-top (OTT) services in Indonesia. Encouraging the creation of content diversity in web series requires mapping content produced within a certain period. This research will map the content of the Indonesian web series broadcast on five OTTs in 2020–2022. This research attempts to map the Indonesian web series themes published from 2020 to July 2022. The method used is a qualitative content analysis by reading various theme elements in the web series. These elements can describe the ideas and impressions created by filmmakers. Thematic elements include (1) plot, (2) emotional or mood effects, (3) character, and (4) style or structure. A popular theme is the theme of romance with a variety of school love. The mood is built through conflicts that are close to everyday life. Style the camera arrangement using cinematic and dynamic shots. The sound arrangement makes a lot of use of dialogue to convey messages. Artistic has a trend to take advantage of the beauty of nature and space. To strengthen the three dimensions of the character, make-up, and wardrobe are used according to the character's character. The results of this study are as follows: A popular theme is romance with a variety of school love. The mood is built through conflicts that are close to everyday life.