bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Study of Inferior Pole of Patella Fracture Treated with Transosseous Technique using Modified Krackow’s Technique Versus Traditional Anterior Tension Band Wiring
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedics, Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Institute, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Maharashtra, India., Solunkhe Swaroop , Shah Meet ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Institute, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Maharashtra, India., Patil Vishal ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Institute, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Maharashtra, India., Kuity Kaman ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Institute, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Maharashtra, India.
Published: October 2024

Introduction: The inferior pole of patella constitutes around 9.3–22% of all the patella fractures presenting to the hospital. The management of inferior pole fractures has been debated since a long from early day of partial or full patellectomy to the current dictum of open reduction and fixation because of the importance of extensor mechanism of the knee. There are various modalities of management of the inferior pole of patella fracture. The use of braided polyester wire has shown to have a higher load to failure and less implant fatigue, leading to the use of trams osseous repair technique with fiber wire as an alternative to tension ban wiring. Materials and Methods: Twenty patients were divided into two groups of 10 each: Group A comprised of patients operated with tension band wiring (TBW) and Group B with patient operated with transosseous repair. Both groups underwent the same physiotherapy postoperatively and the results were compared. Results: Radiological outcomes and the WOMAC score of the patients are comparable in both groups. The return to full range of motion is also similar in both groups with similar physiotherapy given in both groups. Conclusion: This shows that with careful patient selection transosseous repair can be used as an alternative to TBW. Keywords: Transosseous repair, modified Krackow’s technique, inferior pole of patella fracture, trauma, tension band wiring, poly braided sutures.
The Functional Outcome of Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Unstable Floating Shoulder Injuries: A Prospective Study with Good Short-Term and Medium-Term Outcome
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedics, Trauma Care Center, Indira Gandhi Government Medical College and Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India., Sonkusale Aashay , Kimmatkar Nitin ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Trauma Care Center, Indira Gandhi Government Medical College and Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India., Sonwane Sachin ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Trauma Care Center, Indira Gandhi Government Medical College and Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India., Kale Kaustubh ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Trauma Care Center, Indira Gandhi Government Medical College and Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India., Awachat Amit ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Trauma Care Center, Indira Gandhi Government Medical College and Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India., Deshmukh Sangram ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Trauma Care Center, Indira Gandhi Government Medical College and Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India.
Published: October 2024

Introduction: The term “superior shoulder suspension complex (SSSC)” coined by Goss is a bone and soft tissue stable ring made up of clavicular-acromioclavicular strut, the three-process scapular body and the clavicular-coracoclavicular ligamentous-coracoid (C-4) linkage. Disruption at any one site of the SSSC complex makes the other site unstable in a vicious cycle altering the functional anatomy and muscular forces resulting in a “floating shoulder injury” (FSI). The purpose of this study is to evaluate the functional outcome after open reduction and internal fixation of both clavicle and scapula in FSI using Herscovici and American shoulder and Elbow score (ASES) scores. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective study conducted at level 1 trauma care center in India from May 2019 to May 2023 in 18 cases of unstable FSI. All the cases were followed up post-operatively for a period of 18 months. Results: All the injuries were high energy motor vehicular accidents. Fracture union was seen in all cases with mean period of 13.55 weeks for clavicle and 8.5 weeks for scapula on plain radiographs. 72.22% of the patients had an excellent to good functional outcome assessed by Herscovici scoring system and 61% had an ASES score between 50 and 100. No patient had any adverse complication which precluded their return to their daily activities. Conclusion: Early open reduction and internal fixation of significantly displaced unstable FSIs allows early rehabilitation and better functional outcome. Keywords: Floating shoulder injury, surgical fixation, clavicle fracture, spinal pillar fractures.
Finding the Truth: Cadaver and CT scan Study of Differences in Glenoid Width Size in the Indian Population
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedics, MMIMISR, Ambala, Haryana, India,, Upadhyay Gunjan , Jain Himanshu ,   Department of Orthopaedics, MMIMISR, Ambala, Haryana, India,, Munde Santosh Laxman Rao ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Kalpana Chawla Government Medical College, Karnal, Haryana, India., Arya Ashish ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Kalpana Chawla Government Medical College, Karnal, Haryana, India., Agarwal Sashank ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Kalpana Chawla Government Medical College, Karnal, Haryana, India.
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Glenoid mass issues have been extensively published in the recent literature. The controversy arose from our need to compare and obtain the appropriate implant size for reverse shoulder arthroplasty patients. Some well-known authors and surgeons say that Indian patients have a smaller glenoid than their Western friends and patients. Therefore, we decided to examine the glenoid size obtained on a computed tomography (CT) scan and the size obtained on a cadaver, preferably the same cadaver in tertiary care medical school. Necessary permissions were obtained from the relatives of the cadaver, the ethical board, the anatomy department, and the radiology department. Materials and Methods: We evaluated 3D CT scans of 100 patients from our medical college during the global pandemic. Of these, we evaluated only 12 patients whose families agreed to postmortem studies and CT scans. Our research focuses on the shoulder of non-orthopedic diseases conducted at KCGMCH and measured the glenoid height, width, and version using a commercially available computer. Results: The mean age of the patients was 38.5 (range 19–59). The mean glenoid height was 33.8 ± 3.2 mm, maximum glenoid width was 24.3 ± 2.2 mm. The mean glenoid version is 3.48 ± 4 retrospectively. The glenoid width appears to be 23–25 mm on CT scan film, which is similar to cadaver studies. Conclusion: The findings from the cadaver study indicate that the average glenoid size is smaller in the Indian demographic when compared to CT scans. Glenoid width is less in one subset of the population, especially female patients than of the average population than Westerners. However, our studies are limited by the small size of the population and a larger study is recommended in our institution in the future. A better understanding of this glenoid size could help us design a smaller glenoid plate plan, especially for patients in the Indian subcontinent. Keywords: Glenoid base mismatch, glenoid version, glenoid width, reverse total shoulder arthroplasty.
Exploring the dark side of NGO moral goodness: a conceptual framework on the NGO halo and its role in unethical behaviour
Authors: de Bruin Cardoso Isabel , Kaptein Muel , Meijs Lucas
Published: October 2024

There are various examples of unethical behaviour in and by non-governmental organisations (NGOs), yet NGOs are perceived as morally good organisations. Drawing on social identity theory and cognitive dissonance theory we develop a conceptual framework to develop a new root cause for NGO unethical behaviour, namely that such behaviour can be explained because of NGO perceived moral goodness. We propose that when mission, morals and people are perceived as morally good within the NGO, this perception can be glorified, creating an NGO halo. We propose that the NGO halo can drive unethical behaviour through: (1) prioritising mission over other organisational considerations, creating an end-justifies-the-means mentality (moral justification); (2) prioritising the NGO’s morals over legal or social norms, motivating the NGO to trump others’ norms (moral superiority); and (3) prioritising the NGO’s people over ethics management, leading to unethical behaviour being dismissed (moral naivety). We discuss our framework’s implications.
Motivation for volunteering to provide online suicide prevention services in Israel
Authors: Wittenberg Nir , Kagan Maya , Zychlinski Ester
Published: October 2024

The widespread use of the internet has expanded volunteering opportunities, yet motivations driving online volunteers, particularly on suicide prevention hotlines, are not fully understood. This research note based on the multidimensional model of volunteer motivation, analyses data from an online survey of volunteers in Sahar, an Israeli non-profit organisation providing anonymous online support for individuals experiencing emotional distress and suicidal ideation. The research note reveals that the most important motivations of volunteers in online helpline organisations are values, understanding, and enhancement, while career and social motivations are less important and are similar among former and current volunteers. These findings have significant practical and policy implications, aiding organisations in designing effective recruitment and retention strategies for online suicide prevention hotlines.
Emotion, memory and storytelling: postmemorial emotion work in Vietnamese American graphic narratives
Authors: Mohan Aparna , Varma Vrinda
Published: October 2024

The article demonstrates how graphic narratives become a medium for managing inherited emotions in Vietnamese American second-generation works, GB Tran’s Vietnamerica and Thi Bui’s The Best We Could Do. Highlighting the intergenerational transmission of emotions in Vietnamese American families through parental stories about the Vietnam War, the article argues that the authors’ attempts to represent these family stories transform graphic literature into a medium for postmemorial emotion work. While drawing theoretical insights from the sociology of emotions, the study employs textual analysis to thematically close read Vietnamerica and The Best We Could Do to understand the graphic strategies that aid emotion work. The graphic recreation of stories, which are narrativised versions of their inherited trauma memories, can offer potential trauma resolution and autobiographical clarity while fostering communal bonding. The analysis finds that in the works, emotion work is facilitated by various literary strategies, such as affective genealogies, affective geographies, affective pasts, and postmemorial re-embodiment. In a broader sense, the study concludes that graphic narrative strategies can aid in postmemorial emotion work for second-generation refugees grappling with inherited trauma, incoherent autobiographical knowledge, and detachment from the community or family.
Assessing the impact of structural change in sustainable consumption and lifestyles research
Authors: Fuchs Doris , Debourdeau Ariane , Dütschke Elisabeth , Fahy Frances , Garzon Giulia , Kirchler Benjamin , Klöckner Christian A. , Sahakian Marlyne
Published: October 2024

Scientific evidence highlights the pivotal role for structural change in pursuit of the sustainability transformation. A particular challenge for research on structural aspects of sustainable consumption and lifestyles, however, is the assessment of their impact. Especially quantifying the impact of structural change remains a serious problem. While some forms of structural change can be quantified, like the rate of building renovations, changes in the energy mix at the production level, or trends in access to health care or education, the impact of other changes such as societal narratives about wellbeing, political campaigns on energy technologies or policies, or the abandonment of the growth paradigm defy easy quantification. This article aims to shed light on potential avenues for quantitatively assessing the impact of structural change drawing on insights gained by a group of international and interdisciplinary research consortia funded by the European Union in the area of sustainable consumption, citizenship, and lifestyles research. It delineates strengths and weaknesses of different approaches, foci and blindspots of associated data types. Thereby, it highlights fundamental decisions that need to be made in research designs, but also important aspects to consider in the interpretation of results. Finally, the article highlights the particular challenges related to assessing the impact of deep political and ideational structures.
Exofiction as Autofiction: Contemporary French Fiction's Identity Crisis
Authors: Kim Annabel L.
Published: October 2024

Abstract: In the context of contemporary French literature's turn toward the real, exofiction (fictionalized biography, roughly speaking) is often considered the antithesis to autofiction, its much better known and more visible literary cousin. Where autofiction is accused of being a narcissistic, navel-gazing form of writing, exofiction, as its prefix indicates, is framed as being turned outward, toward the world of history and the world of others, free from the self-enclosed reflexivity associated with autofiction. In this article, I take up the exofictions of three well-known contemporary French authors—Laurent Binet, Emmanuel Carrère, and Yannick Haenel—in order to argue against this definitional opposition to claim, instead, that exofiction is indeed another form of autofiction, one that taps into the autos of the French nation and is symptomatic of the collective identity crisis surrounding Frenchness in the twenty-first century.
Ditch Dwellers: Landscapes of Extinction in Beckett and Volodine
Authors: Armstrong Joshua
Published: October 2024

Abstract: This article examines modern and contemporary literature at the nexus of ecological awareness and extinction. It reads works by Samuel Beckett and Antoine Volodine—authors who do something rare in literature by conspicuously placing their heroes in close bodily contact with the ground itself. The continued belief in a fossil-fueled, extractivist paradigm of modernity is contingent upon a blindness to the extinctions it causes and the ravaged landscapes it leaves behind. Dark and disturbing, but also beautiful and bewildering, these works mobilize sediment and sign to challenge radically human exceptionalism and make those realities sink in.
Kitsch Enters the Novel: Flaubert's Satirical Ekphrasis
Authors: Yee Jennifer
Published: October 2024

Abstract: Gustave Flaubert is famous for his collection of "idées reçues," or over-used ideas expressed in hackneyed language. Less widely recognized is his interest in "images reçues," or images from popular culture, at a time when the word "kitsch" is entering usage elsewhere. Flaubert effectively exposes popular imagery as kitsch, framing the description of representational material objects (Keepsakes, prints, a wedding cake) within his prose just as he frames or cites linguistic clichés. This is satirical ekphrasis: the verbal description of visual representation with ironic intent. And yet Flaubert relishes the carnivalesque, absurd juxtapositions of the imagery that he describes.
Implementing Islamic Character Values of Social and Environmental Care at MTs Darul Huda Mayak Ponorogo: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Prajoko Indra , Humaedah
Published: October 2024

Abstract: This study explores the implementation of character values centered on social and environmental care from an Islamic perspective at MTs Darul Huda Mayak Ponorogo. Utilizing a qualitative research methodology grounded in post-positivist philosophy, the research involved participant observation, in-depth interviews, and document analysis to gather data. The findings indicate that Islamic teachings significantly shape the school's approach to character education, emphasizing principles of social responsibility and environmental stewardship. Routine activities, spontaneous actions, role modeling, and school-wide initiatives are designed to teach these values. The study reveals a holistic integration of Islamic values into the school culture, highlighting the effectiveness of this approach in fostering social and environmental consciousness among students. While the research provides valuable insights into the role of Islamic education in character development, its focus on a single institution and qualitative nature may need to be revised in generalizability. Future research should consider diverse educational contexts and employ quantitative measures to assess the long-term impact of these programs.
Abstrak: Penelitian ini mengeksplorasi implementasi nilai-nilai karakter yang berfokus pada kepedulian sosial dan lingkungan dari perspektif Islam di MTs Darul Huda Mayak Ponorogo. Menggunakan metodologi penelitian kualitatif yang berlandaskan filosofi post-positivis, penelitian ini melibatkan observasi partisipan, wawancara mendalam, dan analisis dokumen untuk mengumpulkan data. Temuan menunjukkan bahwa ajaran Islam secara signifikan membentuk pendekatan sekolah terhadap pendidikan karakter, dengan menekankan prinsip-prinsip tanggung jawab sosial dan kepedulian terhadap lingkungan. Kegiatan rutin, tindakan spontan, keteladanan, dan inisiatif sekolah secara keseluruhan dirancang untuk mengajarkan nilai-nilai tersebut. Penelitian ini mengungkapkan integrasi nilai-nilai Islam secara holistik dalam budaya sekolah, yang menyoroti efektivitas pendekatan ini dalam menumbuhkan kesadaran sosial dan lingkungan di kalangan siswa. Meskipun penelitian ini memberikan wawasan yang berharga tentang peran pendidikan Islam dalam pengembangan karakter, fokusnya pada satu institusi dan sifat kualitatifnya mungkin membatasi generalisasi. Penelitian selanjutnya disarankan untuk mempertimbangkan konteks pendidikan yang beragam dan menggunakan ukuran kuantitatif untuk menilai dampak jangka panjang dari program-program ini.
The Influence of TikTok on the Moral Conduct of High School Students: A Case Study in MAN Purwakarta
Authors: Aufa Muhammad Irfan
Published: October 2024

Abstract: This study explores the impact of TikTok on the moral conduct of 12th-grade social science students at MAN Purwakarta. Using a quantitative approach, a survey was conducted among 118 students, selected through stratified random sampling, to assess the relationship between social media usage and student behavior. Data collection involved structured questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, observations, and document reviews, ensuring high ecological validity. Statistical analysis, including linear regression and hypothesis testing, revealed that TikTok use does not significantly influence student morals, accounting for only 46% of the behavioral variance. The remaining 54% is attributed to individual characteristics, family environment, and peer interactions. These findings highlight the need for a more holistic approach to moral education, emphasizing family, school, and community roles alongside responsible social media use. Limitations of this study include its cross-sectional nature and focus on a single social media platform. Future research should consider longitudinal studies and a broader scope of media platforms to understand better the complex interplay between social media and moral development.
Abstrak: Penelitian ini mengeksplorasi dampak penggunaan TikTok terhadap akhlak siswa kelas XII IPS di MAN Purwakarta. Menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif, survei dilakukan terhadap 118 siswa yang dipilih melalui teknik sampling acak berstrata untuk menilai hubungan antara penggunaan media sosial dan perilaku siswa. Pengumpulan data melibatkan kuesioner terstruktur, wawancara semi-terstruktur, observasi, dan tinjauan dokumen, sehingga memastikan validitas ekologis yang tinggi. Analisis statistik, termasuk regresi linier dan uji hipotesis, menunjukkan bahwa penggunaan TikTok tidak secara signifikan memengaruhi akhlak siswa, hanya menjelaskan 46% dari variasi perilaku mereka. Sisanya, yaitu 54%, dipengaruhi oleh faktor lain seperti karakteristik individu, lingkungan keluarga, dan interaksi dengan teman sebaya. Temuan ini menunjukkan perlunya pendekatan yang lebih holistik dalam pendidikan akhlak, dengan menekankan peran keluarga, sekolah, dan komunitas, serta penggunaan media sosial yang bertanggung jawab. Keterbatasan penelitian ini termasuk sifatnya yang cross-sectional dan fokus pada satu platform media sosial. Penelitian di masa depan sebaiknya mempertimbangkan studi longitudinal dan cakupan platform media yang lebih luas untuk memahami interaksi kompleks antara media sosial dan perkembangan akhlak.
Optimising Lecture Methods and Learning Motivation to Improve Islamic Cultural History Outcomes: A Case Study at MTs Nurul Qur’an Pakunden Ponorogo
Authors: Ahmad Roihan Albanna
Published: October 2024

Abstract: This study aims to describe the preparation and implementation. It analyses the influence of the conventional lecture method and learning motivation on Islamic Cultural History (SKI) learning outcomes among Grade IX students at MTs. Nurul Qur’an Pakunden. Utilising a quantitative approach with a random sample of 25 students, this research examines the relationship between the conventional lecture method, learning motivation, and learning outcomes through questionnaires and tests. The results show that the traditional lecture method has a 52.8% influence on learning outcomes, while learning motivation contributes 52.2%. Multiple regression analysis indicates that both variables significantly influence SKI learning outcomes by 63.7%. The study suggests that combining the lecture method with more interactive approaches can enhance learning outcomes while emphasising the importance of supporting student motivation. Limitations include the study’s focus on a single school and excluding other potential influencing factors. Future research should include a broader sample and additional variables to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the factors affecting learning outcomes.
Abstrak: Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pengaruh metode ceramah konvensional dan motivasi belajar terhadap hasil belajar Sejarah Kebudayaan Islam (SKI) siswa kelas IX di MTs. Nurul Qur’an Pakunden. Menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif dengan sampel acak sebanyak 25 siswa, penelitian ini mengukur keterkaitan antara metode ceramah konvensional, motivasi belajar, dan hasil belajar melalui kuesioner dan tes. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa metode ceramah konvensional memberikan pengaruh sebesar 52,8%, sementara motivasi belajar berpengaruh sebesar 52,2%. Analisis regresi berganda menunjukkan bahwa kedua variabel ini secara bersama-sama berpengaruh signifikan terhadap hasil belajar SKI sebesar 63,7%. Implikasi dari penelitian ini menekankan pentingnya penggabungan metode ceramah dengan pendekatan interaktif untuk meningkatkan hasil belajar, serta pentingnya dukungan terhadap motivasi belajar siswa. Keterbatasan penelitian ini meliputi cakupan sampel yang terbatas pada satu sekolah dan variabel lain yang belum diteliti. Penelitian lanjutan disarankan untuk melibatkan sampel yang lebih luas dan mempertimbangkan variabel tambahan untuk memperkaya pemahaman tentang faktor-faktor yang memengaruhi hasil belajar.
Impact of Industry 4.0 on firms' sustainable development in the GCC economies
Authors: Rehman Saif , Hamdan Yacoub Haider , Sindhu Mahwish
Published: October 2024

Goal: This paper utilizes a practice-based view (PBV) and technology-organization-sustainable framework to create and evaluate a research model. The model examines how industry 4.0 (I4.0) affects sustainable development, focusing on the mediating role of 10R advanced manufacturing capabilities. Furthermore, the study also analyzes the moderating influence of environment dynamism (ED). Sustainable development is assessed based on two key factors - financial performance (FP) and sustainable performance (SP).
Design / Methodology / Approach: The data is collected by surveying upper management in the GCC manufacturing sector through questionnaires. A total of 232 responses were included in the primary analyses. Data analysis was carried out with the help of SPSS 25.0 and SmartPLS 3.2.8. The dependability and path analysis were established using structural equation modeling (SEM).
Results: The results show that I4.0 increases FP, whereas the I4.0-SP relationship is statistically insignificant. However, the I4.0-SP insignificant relationship is moderated by ED. Further, ED also moderates the relationship between I4.0 and 10R advanced manufacturing capabilities, as well as 10R advanced manufacturing capabilities and sustainable development (FP and SP). The 10R capabilities partially mediate the I4.0-FP relationship, whereas the study finds full mediation for the I4.0-SP association.
Research limitations: The study employed Google forms to conveniently collect data from GCC industrial senior management using a cross-section design.
Originality / Value: This study has identified a business model that impacts sustainable development by integrating I4.0 technologies, ED, and 10R. The study findings have significant implications for managers and policymakers.
Benchmarking supply chain collaboration dimensions with insights from resource-based theories
Authors: Myamba Benitha Mhoka , Shatta Deus , Massami Erick
Published: October 2024

Goal: Despite the increased attention to the role of supply chain collaboration on firm performance, insufficient evidence exists about the relative importance of each dimension of supply chain collaboration on manufacturing competitiveness. The purpose of this study is to examine the influence and relative importance of supply chain collaboration dimensions on manufacturing competitiveness based on resource-based theories.
Design/methodology/approach: This study employs a deductive approach to derive empirical evidence from the responses of 300 officials of manufacturing firms. The PLS-SEM is used to test the significance of conceptual predictions and IPMA is used to benchmark the most important collaborative dimensions. 
Results: It is revealed that manufacturing firms capitalize on all supply chain collaboration dimensions. However, customer collaboration and supplier collaboration have a significant and positive direct influence while internal collaboration exhibits a complementary partial mediation effect. Customer collaboration is the most important dimension followed by internal collaboration and supplier collaboration.
Limitations of the investigation: This study employed a cross-section design lacking the longitudinal effect. Nevertheless, the identification, testing and validation of the conceptual model, backed up by an extensive literature review, could assist researchers in developing meaningful comparative studies.
Originality/value: The study applied PLS-SEM and IPMA to reveal the role and relative importance of supply chain collaborative dimensions on manufacturing competitiveness. Managers of manufacturing firms can emulate this knowledge within their settings and be able to compete amid increased competition and supply chain complexity.
Neocortical Inhibitory System
Authors: Druga Rastislav
Published: October 2024

The neocortex contains two neuron types, excitatory (glutamatergic) pyramidal cells and inhibitory nonpyramidal (GABAergic) cells. GABAergic, inhibitory interneurons are morphologically distinct from excitatory pyramidal cells and account for 20–25 % of all neocortical neurons. Recent studies discovered that besides morphological features, inhibitory interneurons are molecularly and physiologically heterogenous and differ significantly in arrangement and terminations of their axonal endings. In neocortical interneurons, GABA is also co-localized with calcium-binding proteins (parvalbumin, calbindin, calretinin), with neuropeptides and nitric oxide synthase. Axons of GABAergic neurons target distinct domains of pyramidal neurons. Double-bouquet, Martinotti and neurogliaform cells (CB-IR, CR-IR) target distal dendrites of pyramidal neurons and probably regulate the vertical integration of synaptic input along the dendritic tree of pyramids. Basket cells (PV-IR) innervate soma and proximal dendrites, and Chandelier cells (PV-IR) exhibit synaptic contacts on the axon initial segment of pyramidal neurons. GABAergic neocortical interneurons are interconnected by gap junctions. Most often coupling is bidirectional and occurs between interneurons of the same type. Cortical pyramidal neurons derive from the dorsal telencephalon while the majority of interneurons derive from the ganglionic eminences of the ventral telencephalon, and tangentially migrate into cortex. Adult mammalian neurogenesis is not restricted to the hippocampus, but a small number of the new neurons is also generated in the neocortex. New cortical neurons are GABAergic and co-express calbindin and calretinin. Quantitative analysis of selected areas of the neocortex (neuropsychiatric diseases, models of epilepsy, aging) demonstrate a decrease in density of PV-IR and CB-IR neurons but not CR-IR neurons.
In Vivo Differentiation of Human Umbilical Cord Blood-Derived Cells into Insulin-Producing β Cells
Authors: Koblas T. , Zacharovová K. , Berková Z. , Leontovič I. , Dovolilová E. , Zámečník L. , Saudek František
Published: October 2024

In our study we confirmed the potential of human umbilical cord blood cells to differentiate into insulin-producing cells following transplantation into immunocompromised mice. The average number of C-peptide-positive human cells per animal was 18 ± 13 as assessed by immunofluorescence staining and fluorescence in situ hybridization specific for human ALU sequence. Differentiation into insulin-producing cells was further confirmed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction specific for human insulin mRNA. Successful differentiation required sublethal irradiation of xenogeneic recipient at least at a dose of 3 Gy. However, transplantation of human umbilical cord blood cells did not improve hyperglycaemia in diabetic animals. The results of our study show that human umbilical cord blood may be considered as a potential source of stem cells for treatment of diabetes mellitus.
Acute impact of inorganic nitrate supplementation after ischemia and during small muscle mass exercise in postmenopausal females: A pilot study
Authors: Caldwell Jacob T. , Koenke Alyssa , Zimmerman Lauren , Wahl Aaron E. , Fenn Sarah A. , Grammer Emily E. , Stahl Macy E. , Allen Jason D. , Jaime Salvador J.
Published: October 2024

Menopause is associated with reduced endothelial‐dependent vasodilation and increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Dietary nitrate, a non‐pharmacological approach, may increase vasodilatory capacity consequentially reducing CVD risk. We investigated macro‐ and microvascular function after acute nitrate supplementation in postmenopausal females (PMF). Vascular function was studied with flow‐mediated vasodilation (FMD) and near‐infrared post occlusive reactive hyperemia (PORH). Incremental handgrip exercise was performed to investigate blood flow and tissue oxygenation. We hypothesized acute dietary nitrate would not impact resting endothelial measures but would increase post ischemic vasodilation and incremental exercise blood flow. Late‐phase PMF (n = 12) participated in a randomized crossover design with 140 mL of nitrate‐rich (NR) beetroot juice or nitrate‐poor black currant juice. Testing included a 5‐min FMD, a 3‐min ischemic exercise FMD, and incremental exercise at 10%, 15%, and 20% maximal voluntary contraction to measure blood flow and pressure responses. A p ≤ 0.05 was considered significant. One‐way ANOVA indicated lower resting pressures, but no change to FMD, or PORH in either protocol. Two‐way repeated measures ANOVA indicated NR supplementation significantly reduced mean arterial pressure at rest and during incremental exercise at all intensities without changes to blood flow. Acute nitrate is effective for resting and exercising blood pressure management in PMF.
Gender and Family Stereotypes in a Photograph: Research Using the Eye-Tracking Method
Authors: Labischová Denisa , Kalitová Kristina
Published: October 2024

The article presents the results of a 2022 study involving students training to be civic studies teachers. Three research goals were set: to determine which gender and family stereotypes burden the interpretation of a photograph; to identify qualitative differences in the perception, analysis, and interpretation of the photograph depending on the form of the questions asked; and to gain respondents’ feedback on the test. The test used a computer and was based on a family photograph and a series of questions. Three methods of data collection and analysis were used (audio recording analysis, eye-tracking, interview). The study found that future teachers are substantially influenced by gender stereotypes in Czech society. It also confirmed the importance of didactic structuring when analysing iconographic material. The findings show the importance of gender-sensitive education and the development of didactic skills for interpreting visual texts as part of undergraduate training for future civic studies teachers.
Florida’s agricultural inspection stations: focus on intercepting invasive Hemiptera in interstate truck shipments
Authors: Nance Catherine E. , Powell Erin C. , Russell Dyrana , Halbert Susan E.
Published: October 2024

The interstate highways I-10, I-75, and I-95 are key routes for long-distance truckers carrying agricultural products between states and countries. These products often carry pests. Inspectors from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Plant Industry (FDACS-DPI) work with Agricultural Law Enforcement officers at agricultural inspection stations along these interstate highways. Samples of suspect pests are collected by DPI inspectors and sent for identification. From 2009 to 2021, there were 5,408 samples submitted to entomologists at DPI from inspection stations. These samples resulted in 14,835 interception identifications, of which 1,466 (9.9 %) were pests of regulatory significance to Florida agriculture. Of the regulatorily significant pests, 61.3 % were hemipterans. Several regulated hemipterans, including the potato psyllid, Bactericera cockerelli (Šulc) (Triozidae), are known to be vectors of plant pathogens that do not occur in Florida. Inspection station interceptions are an important tool for monitoring potentially invasive pests, as is demonstrated in the case of the Ligurian leafhopper, Eupteryx decemnotata (Rey) (Cicadellidae), which was intercepted alive at the agricultural inspection stations several times and subsequently found to be established in Florida in 2021. Interceptions at Florida’s agricultural inspection stations can include pests that are not yet present in the United States, such as the armored scale Davidsonaspis aguacatae (Evans, Watson & Miller) (Diaspididae). This species is regularly intercepted alive on avocados and threatens domestically grown avocados. Our data illustrate the importance of interstate highways as a pathway for agricultural pests and of inspection stations as an early warning system for invasive insects.
New measurement indicator of ultrasound assessment of the fetal pancreas based on anatomical landmarks and its application to fetuses with gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Liao Ruibi , Zhang Zejian , Zhang Yuxia , Lin Yuanfeng , Chen Rongsen , Wang Lijun , Zhong Huohu , Lyu Guorong
Published: October 2024

Objectives

To assess the best method for measuring the fetal pancreas, provide nomograms and evaluate the effect of GDM on it.

Methods

A total of 271 singleton fetuses (17–36 weeks) were included in this study. Measurements of pancreatic parameters established reference ranges. Repeatability and consistency analyzed. GDM impact on fetal pancreatic growth assessed.

Results

Measurements of fetal pancreatic parameters fell within the 95 % confidence interval when performed by the same or different physicians. Pancreatic midline longitudinal axis demonstrated the best intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and follow by the pancreatic circumference. The successful display rate and measured parameters of the integral fetal pancreas achieved 90.3 %. Pancreatic midline longitudinal axis and circumference increased with gestational age, with significant differences observed among fetuses at different gestational ages (F=2060 and F=2264, p<0.05). Pancreatic midline longitudinal axis and circumference in normal fetuses from 17 to 36 weeks of gestation were positively correlated with gestational age and abdominal circumference. Poorly controlled GDM fetuses exhibited significantly larger pancreatic midline longitudinal axis and circumference compared to the normal group fetuses (Z-values were −3.82 and −3.77, both p<0.01), while no significant differences were found between well-controlled GDM group fetuses and normal group fetuses (Z-values were −0.59 and −0.042, both p>0.05).

Conclusions

Ultrasound method using anatomical landmarks to measure the fetal pancreatic midline longitudinal axis and circumference is reliable. Pancreatic measurements increase with gestational age. Poorly controlled gestational diabetes can lead to enlargement of the fetal pancreas.
The stability of high ring homomorphisms and derivations on fuzzy Banach algebras
Authors: Chen Lin , Luo Xiaolin
Published: October 2024

In this article, we focus on exploring the fuzzy version of the Hyers-Ulam-Rassias stability of

n

n

-ring homomorphisms and

n

n

-ring derivations in the context of fuzzy Banach algebras. Our investigation utilizes the direct method.
Optical music recognition: challenges and future directions
Authors: Melnychuk Khrystyna O. , Liaskovska Solomiia E.
Published: October 2024

Optical music recognition (OMR) as a branch of computer vision has deep roots dating back to the sixties, but has been actively developing only in the last few decades. The main goal of OMR is to automate the process of converting a musical score into a digital format. Despite the advances in image processing, there are still some difficulties, caused by the field’s specifics, described in the work. Defining the concept of OMR is problematic, as there are numerous definitions ranging from task-specific to general. A comprehensive definition is proposed in the work, which allows more clearly outlining the semantic boundaries of the studied concept. The peculiarities of the contextuality of musical notation in comparison with text systems of writing are discussed. The range of sizes of musical symbols as a separate feature of notation is mentioned. The importance of the impact of text marks on the recognition difficulty is noted. The importance of visual differences between musical symbols and their influence on recognition accuracy is explained. The difficulty of recognizing sheets with several voices within one staff and with multiple staves is highlighted. The classification of sheet music types depending on the presence of several voices and staves is reviewed. The impact of score format on recognition difficulty is discussed. The impact of musical notation types on the OMR process is noted. The work considers the general structure of the OMR system, proposed by D. Bainbridge and T. Bell, and the main stages of the musical notation recognition process, according to the structure. The «bottom-up» structure of the OMR system, according to A. Pacha, is considered. The difficulties of OMR systems evaluation are discussed, examples from the literature are provided. Currently available software for OMR, its capabilities and limitations are also reviewed. The results of testing one of them, the Audiveris module built into the MuseScore platform for converting sheet music into digital format, on specific musical compositions are described and summarized.
Models and methods for optimizing data processing in a multi-server environment using operation queues and chunking data authentication
Authors: Surkov Sergii S. , Martyniuk Oleksandr M. , Mileiko Igor H.
Published: October 2024

This work is motivated by the need to raise the rate of computation at present day industrial usage, including but not limited to dust flow simulation. Since these tasks remain as complex as they are and are getting more complex, the necessity of optimizing the usage of the multi-server system’s resources becomes evident, thus the need for new approaches towards the improvement of the data processing. The goal of this work is to develop an information technology which can be applied in more complicated systems where there can be more than one server and the focus is made on operation queues. The solution offered in the work is directed to the optimization of computational loads distribution over the servers, and to the growth of modeling accuracy in relation to the time necessary for calculations. This improves computation efficiency especially when working with large datasets. Another key focus is the development of a chunking model and method aimed at enhancing data authentication and integrity for distributed operations. This prevents the potential IP spoofing and man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks when data is transmitted within the same local area network, ensuring the quality and consistency of distributed computational systems in a multi-server environment. Experimental studies have confirmed the effectiveness of the proposed solution: it cuts down to a very great degree the time required to do the computation and at the same time enhances the feasibility of the modeling projection. The management of the queue of operations, parallel data processing, and chunking authentication constitute the system architecture which was developed and shown high effectiveness in real conditions. A new solution could be used to enable the optimization of computer modeling processes, scientific calculations and audio/video conversion as well make solving many other problems that ensure scalability in conditions of data growth and complication tasks.
Development of information technology for multi-criteria assessment of petrol stations vulnerability to accidents
Authors: Ivanov Oleksii V. , Arsirii Olena O. , Smyk Sergiy Yu. , Oliinyk Vadym M. , Bieliaiev Kyrylo O.
Published: October 2024

Theses consider the development of intelligent information technology (IT) for the multi-criteria assessment of the petrol stations vulnerability to major accidents. On the basis of the authors' previous research on the methodology of assessing accidents and risks at petrol stations, it was proposed to develop IT for petrol stations vulnerability assessment, which would include methods of multi-criteria decision analysis, intelligent data analysis and fuzzy logic. The proposed IT construction method consists of 10 consecutive steps. The implementation of the first steps is related to the determination of the main types of accidents at petrol stations and consideration of the petrol stations vulnerability from the point of view of possible adverse consequences, for which the involved experts created 41 criteria of the primary space for assessing the petrol stations vulnerability, including economic, social and environmental criteria, as well as lost lives. To solve such a multi-criteria problem, it is proposed to apply the analytical hierarchy process for the analysis of expert data to obtain the secondary space of vulnerability criteria, without considering the lost lives. Based on the secondary space of criteria, data on the network of 17 petrol stations was collected and a scheme for their pre-processing and coding was proposed. A generalized model was developed based on the obtained data to assess the petrol stations vulnerability. To interpret the obtained results of the petrol stations vulnerability assessment, the use of a linguistic variable, which includes fuzzy sets in the form of trapezoidal membership functions, is proposed. Intelligent IT for petrol stations vulnerability assessment is implemented in the form of a decision support system (DSS). The decision-maker, based on the entered data according to the vulnerability criteria of a certain petrol station, will receive the preliminary value of the petrol station vulnerability assessment and an explanation of the way to obtain it. An integral part of the DSS is a formed knowledge base, which includes a database of pre-assessed petrol stations, as well as a base of rules for deriving the interpretation of the vulnerability assessment, with the possibility of its further editing and expansion. To visualize the results, petrol station data is displayed on a normalized coordinate graph, as well as on a graph of defined membership functions. The use of the proposed intelligent IT for multi-criteria assessment of the petrol stations vulnerability and DSS based on it provides an opportunity to make informed decisions on the assessment of potentially hazardous facilities and risk management, which allows to reduce the potential negative impact of accidents on petrol stations, improving the economic and social well-being of the country, considering the environmental impact.
Complex systems for controlling thermal modes of radio-electronic equipment
Authors: Zaykov Vladimir P. , Mescheryakov Vladimir I. , Ustenko Andriy S.
Published: October 2024

The system of providing thermal conditions of radio-electronic equipment, which is a necessary subsystem of such modern information systems as on-board mobile objects with high requirements to reliability, dynamics and controllability, is analyzed. A solid-state method of cooling energy generation based on the Peltier effect is highlighted, which has such advantages as the possibility of creating a temperature below ambient, small dimensions, mass and increased reliability compared to similar coolers of other physical principles. It is shown that in distributed systems with heat-loaded elements the function of transporting heat flows is necessary, and the most promising for the solved problems is realized on flexible heat pipes, which agree with thermoelectric coolers in terms of reliability, mass and dimensional characteristics. The method of reducing the mass and dimensional characteristics of systems for providing thermal modes with impulse heat generation, typical for tracking systems or on-board systems, is considered. It is noted that the heat of phase transition of melting substances allows to form thermal accumulators, which, when coordinated with the dynamic characteristics of thermal processes of the system, allows to significantly reduce the mass and dimensional characteristics of the system for providing thermal modes. The use of thermal accumulators in systems with pulse-periodic influence allows to increase also reliability indicators due to filtration of high-frequency thermal emissions in heat-loaded elements. The expediency of the system approach to the design of the thermoelectric system for ensuring thermal modes of electronic equipment with heat pipes and thermal accumulators by synthesizing a multidimensional regulator type “Multiple Input - Multiple Output” (MIMO) is substantiated. It is substantiated that to satisfy the basic principles of multidimensional systems of fragility and robustness it is necessary to satisfy the condition of creation of a qualitative model of the thermoelectric system of provision of thermal modes of heat-loaded electronic equipment.