bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IS DÉLAFLOXACINE A THERAPEUTIC OPTION FOR BONE AND JOINT INFECTIONS? A CRIOGO MULTICENTRE RETROSPECTIVE STUDY
Authors: Tessier Eve , d'Epenoux Louise Ruffier , Lartigue Marie-Frédérique , Guerin François , Plouzeau-Jayle Chloé , Tandé Didier , Chenouard Rachel , Bemer Pascale , Corvec Stephane
Published: November 2023

Abstract Background

The treatment of bone and joint infections (BJI) involving multi-drug resistant bacteria remains a challenge. MDR Staphylococcus epidermidis (MDRSE) clones, resistant to methicillin, clindamycin, levofloxacin, rifampicin and even linezolid, have been reported worldwide. The interest of delafloxacin (DFX), theoretically active on MRSA, remains to be evaluated with respect to MDRSE.

Purpose

Our objective was to evaluate during a retrospective multicenter study the DFX minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and compare its efficacy between ofloxacin-susceptible and ofloxacin-resistant S. epidermidis clinical strains involved in BJI.

Methods

In this multicenter retrospective study (Reference centers from the West part of France, CRIOGO), 529 strains were collected mostly from BJI. DFX MICs were determined by using a 0.5 Mc Farland bacterial inoculum on Mueller-Hinton agar plates with gradient strips incubated for 24h at 35°C. For S. aureus, breakpoints differentiate skin and soft tissue infections from other infections. Breakpoints followed 2022 EUCAST criteria, with S. aureus values adopted for S. epidermidis.

Results

Of the 529 strains collected, 355 were from prosthetic infections, 159 from synthetic infections and 15 from non-device infections. 152 strains were susceptible to ofloxacin (110 males vs 42 females) and 377 resistant (210 vs 167). As presented in Figure 1, all the ofloxacin-susceptible strains presented a DFX MIC ≤0.006mg/L. Resistant strains presented a double population distribution, with 3.7% categorized susceptible according to skin and soft tissues infections breakpoint, against 88.9% according to other breakpoint infections (0.016 or 0.25mg/L respectively).

Conclusion

DFX shows excellent activity against ofloxacine-susceptible strains. Concerning the ofloxacin-resistant strains, more than 80% strains or less than 10% can be considered as DFX-susceptible depending on the breakpoints used. Further clinical studies are needed to validate the real breakpoints that must be used in MDRSE BJI, allowing a microbiological cure and a favourable clinical outcome.

For any tables or figures, please contact the authors directly.
IMPACT OF ANTIMICROBIAL SUPPRESSION ON LONG-TERM OUTCOME OF STREPTOCOCCAL PERIPROSTHETIC JOINT INFECTIONS
Authors: Dos Santos Maria Virginia , Meller Sebastian , Perka Carsten , Trampuz Andrej , Renz Nora
Published: November 2023

Aim

Antimicrobial suppression has shown to significantly improve treatment success of streptococcal periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) compared to 12-week standard antimicrobial therapy, however, only short-term follow-up was investigated. In this study we assessed the impact of suppression on the long-term outcome of streptococcal PJI.

Method

Consecutive patients with streptococcal PJI (defined by EBJIS criteria) treated 2009–2021 were prospectively included and allocated into standard and suppression (> 6 months) treatment group. Infection-free survival was assessed with Kaplan-Meier-method and compared between the groups with log rank test. Rates of infection-free, streptococcal infection-free and relapse-free status as well as tolerability of suppression were assessed.

Results

Sixty-three PJI episodes (36 knee, 26 hip and one shoulder prosthesis) of patients with a median age of 70 (35–87) years were included. Twenty-seven (43%) were females. Predominant pathogens were S. agalactiae (n=20), S. dysgalactiae (n=18) and S. mitis/oralis (n=13). The main surgical procedures used were two-stage exchange (n=35) and prosthesis retention (n=21). Standard 12-week treatment was administered in 33 patients and suppression in 30 patients, of whom 10 had ongoing suppression and 20 had discontinued antibiotics at time of follow-up. Used oral antibiotics for suppression were amoxicillin (n=29), doxycycline (n=5) and clindamycin (n=2); 6 patients changed antibiotic substance due to side effects. The median follow-up time was 3.9 (0.3–13.3) years. Infection-free survival after 7.5 years was 38% with standard treatment and 62% with suppression (p=0.038). Of all failures, 52% (14/27) were due to streptococci. Suppression was effective in preventing streptococcal infection for the duration of antimicrobial treatment, however, after discontinuation relapses or new infections due to streptococci occurred in 5/20 (25%) patients and infection with any Streptococcus spp. was observed in 9/19 (47%) failures with standard treatment, 5/6 (83%) failures after discontinuing suppression and none during suppression. All failures in patients with ongoing suppression were caused by gram-negative rods.

Conclusion

At long-term follow-up, the success rate was superior with suppression compared to standard treatment. Most failures after stopping suppression were caused by streptococci, whereas failures under suppression were caused by aerobic gram-negative rods.
QUALITY OF LIFE AND MORTALITY IN PATIENTS WAITING FOR AN OPERATION FOR BONE AND JOINT INFECTION
Authors: Hotchen Andrew , Dudareva Maria , Frank Florian , Sukpanichy Sermsak , Corrigan Ruth , Ferguson Jamie , Stubbs David , McNally Martin
Published: November 2023

Aim

To investigate the impact of waiting for surgical treatment for bone and joint infection (BJI) on patient self-reported quality of life (QoL).

Method

Patients presenting to clinic between January 2019 and February 2020 completed the EuroQol EQ-5D-5L questionnaire. Patients were divided into three groups: surgery performed; on the waiting list for surgery; or decision for non-operative management. All patients were followed-up for 2 years. The EQ-index score was calculated and change from presentation to 1-year and 2-year follow-up was compared across the 3 groups. Mortality at final follow-up was measured in all groups.

Results

188 patients were included. Of these, 98 had an operation performed, 50 were on the waiting list for surgery but did not receive an operation and 40 were treated non-operatively. At presentation, all three groups had similar EQ-5D-5L index scores (surgery:0.412 SD0.351; waiting list:0.510 SD0.320; non-operative management: 0.467 SD0.354; p=0.269). There was a significant improvement in QoL in patients who underwent surgery when compared to their pre-operative state (mean increase of EQ-index score +0.241 in the first year (SD0.333, p<0.001) and +0.259 (SD0.294, p<0.001) in the second year. Patients on the waiting list for surgery had a small time-dependent decrease in EQ-index score at 1 year (−0.077, SD0.282, p=0.188) and 2 years (−0.140, SD0.359, p=0.401). Patients treated non-operatively had similar changes in EQ-index scores at 1 year (−0.052, SD0.309, p=0.561) and 2 years (−0.146, SD 0.234, p=0.221). Patients who had surgery had significantly better QoL at 2-years after treatment compared to other groups (mean EQ-index scores: surgery performed 0.671 vs. waiting list 0.431, p<0.001; surgery performed vs. non-operative management 0.348, p<0.001).

Mortality in the operated group was 3.1%, which was similar to patients who were on the waiting list for surgery (6.5%, p=0.394) but lower than patients who were non-operatively managed (14.7%, p=0.014).

Conclusions

The Covid-19 pandemic created long waiting times for some patients. Selecting patients with BJI who can safely wait for surgery is difficult. QoL for patients with BJI deteriorates over time if surgery is delayed or not performed. When patients decline surgery, they should be counselled that their QoL is likely to be impaired over time. The relationship between waiting time and mortality merits further study.
NOVEL DIAGNOSIS MARKER OF PERIPROSTHETIC JOINT INFECTION: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Schindler Melanie , Walter Nike , Sigmund Irene Katharina , Maderbacher Günther , Alt Volker , Rupp Markus
Published: November 2023

Background

The identification of novel biomarker which is highly specific and sensitive for periprosthetic joint (PJI) have the potential to improve diagnostic accuracy and ultimately improve patient outcomes. Thus, the aim of this systemic review is to identify and evaluate novel biomarkers for the preoperative diagnostics of PJI.

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed and Cochrane Library databases identified from 1st of January 2018 to 30th of September. 2022. We used “periprosthetic joint infection” OR “prosthetic joint infection” OR “periprosthetic infection” as the diagnosis of interest and the target index applied AND “marker”. To focus on novel biomarkers already used biomarkers of the established PJI diagnostic criteria of MSIS, ICM and EBJIS were not included in the analysis. These three criteria were considered the reference standard during quality assessment.

Results

A total of 19 studies were included. In these, fourteen different novel biomarkers were analyzed. Fifteen studies (79%) had prospective designs and the other four (22%) were retrospective studies. Six studies (33%) included only periprosthetic knee infections and thirteen (67%) included periprosthetic knee and hip infections. Proteins were analyzed in most cases (nine studies), followed by molecules (three studies), exosome (two studies) as well as DNA (two studies), interleukin (one study) and lysosome (one study). One novel and promising marker that had been frequently analyzed is calprotectin.

Conclusion

No marker demonstrated higher sensitivity and specificity than already known parameters used for standardized treatment based on established PJI definitions. Further studies are needed to elucidate the benefit and usefulness of implementing new biomarkers in diagnostic PJI settings.
GENOME-BASED ANALYSIS OF VIRULENCE FACTORS OF THE GENUS CUTIBACTERIUM ISOLATED FROM IMPLANT-ASSOCIATED INFECTIONS IN SLOVENIA
Authors: Erbeznik Anja , Šturm Andraž Celar , Smrdel Katja Strašek , Triglav Tina , Vodicar Polona Maver
Published: November 2023

Aim

The aim of our study was to analyze putative genes for virulence factors of Cutibacterium isolates obtained from implant-associated infections.

Methods

We analyzed 64 isolates of Cutibacterium spp. (C. acnes (53/64), C. avidum (6/64), C. granulosum (4/64), C. namnetense (1/64)) using NextSeq 550 (Illumina, San Diego, CA, USA) and performed genomic analysis of 24 genes associated with virulence factors (VFs) of C. acnes previously reported in the literature. Most isolates were obtained from implant-associated infections (IAI) between 2012–2021 at the Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Ljubljana. Additionally, we included the first C. namnetense isolated in our laboratory from surgical site infection.

Results

C. acnes and C. namnetense have the highest number of VFs among those examined. The VFs gntK (shikimate kinase) and HYL-IB / II (hyaluronate lyase) are absent in phylotype IA1 (sequence types (ST) A, C, D according to the SLST scheme). Repressor gene of porphyrin synthesis, deoR is present in all Cutibacterium spp. isolates. The phylotypes II and IB show a similar distribution of VFs, with the presence of the VFs rcsB (compound for biofilm formation) and HYL-IA (hyaluronate lyase), which are absent in other C. acnes phylotypes and other Cutibacterium spp.

In phylotypes IA1 and IB, the sequence of genes encoding VFs dsA1 and dsA2 does not have 100% genomic coverage, possibly indicating homologs between species. The isolates of C. acnes and C. namnetense possess all three CAMP (1,2,4) factors, which are not detected in other Cutibacterium spp. However, further analysis revealed species-specific CAMP factors in C. avidum and C. granulosum. Both species also have similar other genes for VFs, mainly encoding heat shock proteins and lipases, while VFs related to biofilm production are mostly absent (rcsB, ytpA).

Conclusion

We found several differences in the distribution of VFs among Cutibacterium spp. isolated from IAI.
EXTENDED ANTIMICROBIAL PROPHYLAXIS DOES NOT IMPROVE OUTCOME OF UNEXPECTED PJI: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL
Authors: Veerman Karin , Telgt Denise , Rijnen Wim , Goosen Jon
Published: November 2023

Aim

In 10% of the presumed aseptic hip or knee revisions, a low-grade infection is unexpectedly diagnosed based on the tissue samples taken during revision. Extended antimicrobial prophylaxis can possibly reduce the failure rate in cases of unexpected PJI, because the prophylaxis can be considered as early empiric treatment. In this randomized controlled study we analysed whether extended antimicrobial prophylaxis compared to a single dose is beneficial to improve the outcome of treatment in unexpected PJI in revision arthroplasty.

Method

This study was nested in a randomized clinical trial comparing single-dose cefazolin with prolonged prophylaxis (15 doses of cefazolin over 5 days) for revision arthroplasty of the hip or knee. For this analysis, patients were included if an unsuspected PJI (defined as ≥2 positive intraoperative tissue samples with the same microorganism) was diagnosed. PJI treatment consisted of 12 weeks of a rifampicin-based regimen in Staphylococcal PJI, without removal of the prosthesis. We examined Infection characteristics and success of treatment after one year, defined as the absence of signs or treatment for PJI during follow-up.

Results

After randomization of 662 patients, 68 unexpected PJI were diagnosed. In 5 cases no antimicrobial treatment was started. The success rate after one year follow-up for those who received PJI treatment was 96% (28/29) in the single dose group and 91% (31/34) in the extended prophylaxis group (p=1.00). The most frequently identified pathogens in unexpected PJI were Cutibacterium acnes (n=50) and Staphylococcus epidermidis (n=14). The causatives were susceptible for the cefazolin prophylaxis in 61 of the 63 cases. The interval between the stopped prophylaxis and the re-start of antimicrobial treatment was on average 10 days (SD 4) for the single dose and 5 days (SD 4) for the extended group. The mean duration of antimicrobial treatment was 83 days (SD 12) and did not differ between both groups (p=0.16).

Conclusions

This is the first randomized controlled trial in which extended prophylaxis showed no benefit on the prosthesis survival for patients with an unexpected PJI after assumed aseptic revision of the hip or knee prosthesis. The results imply that extended prophylaxis should not be given as part of early empiric therapy.
Levels of straw in the soil physical attributes and sugar cane production in different seasons
Authors: Silva Neto João Alfredo da , Arcoverde Sálvio Napoleão Soares , Souza Cristiano Márcio Alves de , Silva Cesar José da
Published: November 2023

Conservation management practices are beneficial to the physical quality of the soil and agricultural sustainability. The objective of this work was to evaluate the influence of remaining straw levels (0; 5; 10 and 15 Mg ha-1) on soil physical attributes and sugarcane productivity components (third cut), in three seasons - 1 ( variety RB 855156), 2 (variety RB 835486) and 3 (variety RB 835054). For physical analyses of density, macroporosity, microporosity, and total porosity, soil samples were collected in 0.00-0.05; 0.05-0.10; 0.10-0.15, and 0.15-0.20 m layers. The soil resistance to penetration (RP) was evaluated up to 0.40 m deep, at the experimental setting up (third cut), and after 12 months, following the fourth cut. The number of stems ha-1, total recoverable sugar (TRS), the productivity of industrializable stalks (ISP), and sugar (TAH) were evaluated. At the end of the sugarcane harvest (first season), a reduction was found in the density and an increase in total porosity up to 0.20 m, an increase in macropores, in the 0.00-0.05 and 0.10-0.15 m layers, and RP reduction, in the 0.00-0.10 m layer. At the end of the second and third harvest seasons, RP increases of up to 0.30 m stand out. Straw levels did not influence stalk and sugar productivity in the first and second seasons, and in the third harvest season, maximum stalk and sugar productivity was obtained by maintaining 5 Mg ha-1 of straw.
Visible spectrum waveguiding in bulk CMOS
Authors: Sarkar Debjit , Hajimiri Ali
Published: November 2023

Waveguiding across the visible spectrum in an unmodified bulk CMOS chip is reported. The chip is fabricated in a standard CMOS process, and a simple wet etch removes metal in predetermined locations to expose glass rib waveguides. A modified Euler bend is introduced to improve bend radii by nearly an order of magnitude in the rib waveguides, and upper-bound losses are measured at visible wavelengths. These losses range from 6.2 dB/cm at 450 nm to 3.2 dB/cm at 650 nm and represent the lowest losses reported at visible wavelengths in unmodified bulk CMOS.
Spatiotemporal mode-locking of an all-fiber laser based on InP quantum dot saturable absorber
Authors: Lou Yajun , Ge Boyuan , Cai Yue , Zhang Xinhai
Published: November 2023

Passive mode-locking based on saturable absorbers (SAs) is an effective way to generate ultrafast pulses, while the spatiotemporal mode-locking (STML) based on SAs are rarely studied. We construct an all-fiber laser with InP quantum dots (QDs) SA, and realize multi-mode Q-switching (MMQS) and STML. In addition, by adjusting the polarization controller (PC) in the laser cavity, we obtain two different single-pulse STML states. The narrowest pulse widths of the two states are 57 ps and 32 ps, respectively, and the pulse width can be tuned continuously with increasing the pump power. By decoupling the effects of the PC and the SA in our experiment, we find that the polarization plays a key role in the selection of transverse modes. The effect of independent polarization on spatiotemporal mode-locked pulses has not been investigated before. To further analyze and understand the experimental results, we numerically solve the nonlinear Schrodinger equation, and compare the numerical simulation with the experimental results. In addition to passively adjusting cavity loss, the InP QD SA can balance the large walk off between different transverse modes, due to the spatial and spectral filtering effects. Our work has important implications for the design and application of all-fiber STML lasers.
Three-state coherent control using narrowband and passband sequences
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Shen Li-Tuo , Song Jie , Xia Yan , Shi Zhi-Cheng
Published: November 2023

In this work, we propose a comprehensive design for narrowband and passband composite pulse sequences by involving the dynamics of all states in the three-state system. The design is quite universal as all pulse parameters can be freely employed to modify the coefficients of error terms. Two modulation techniques, the strength and phase modulations, are used to achieve arbitrary population transfer with a desired excitation profile, while the system keeps minimal leakage to the third state. Furthermore, the current sequences are capable of tolerating inaccurate waveforms, detuning errors, and work well when rotating wave approximation is not strictly justified. Therefore, this work provides versatile adaptability for shaping various excitation profiles in both narrowband and passband sequences.
Time-domain characterization of electric field vector in multi-terahertz pulses using polarization-modulated electro-optic sampling
Authors: Kanda Natsuki , Nakagawa Mayuri , Murotani Yuta , Matsunaga Ryusuke
Published: November 2023

We demonstrated characterizing the electric field waveform of multi-terahertz pulses (10 − 50 THz) as vector quantities in the time domain by applying the polarization modulated electro-optic sampling (POMEOS) method. The problem of an ultrabroadband gate pulse was solved by modifying the fitting function in POMEOS, and its validity was confirmed through numerical simulations. High accuracy and precision of approximately 1 mrad with 3 s accumulation were demonstrated. Our method can be applied not only to multi-terahertz polarization measurements for linear response but also to the evaluation of the driving field of intense pulses for nonlinear response or material control.
Efficient Nd:YAG crystal laser with rotatory pumping
Authors: Li Yuefei , Zhang Bo , Cao Weilin , Chen Wen , Zhang Dawei , Ueda Kenichi , Li Jianlang
Published: November 2023

The performance of solid-state laser is limited by the thermal effects in the gain medium. In this study, we investigated the implementation of an efficient short-cavity continuous-wave 1064 nm Nd:YAG solid-state laser by using a rotatory pumping scheme to alleviate the thermal accumulation in the gain medium. With this method, the laser power reached 25.7 W with a slope efficiency of 41.5% at a 10.0-mm pump rotation radius and an optimum rotation rate of 2300 rpm. The influence of rotatory pumping radius and rotation rates was analyzed, and the results indicated that the rotatory pumping would be promising technique for the power scaling of solid-state lasers.
Photonic distributed compressive sampling of multi-node wideband sparse radio frequency signals
Authors: Yang Bo , Liu Zining , Zhang Yamei , Dai Wei , Zhai Yanrong , Yang Shuna , Chi Hao
Published: November 2023

A photonic distributed compressive sampling (PDCS) approach for identifying the spectra of multi-node wideband sparse signals is proposed. The scheme utilizes wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) technology to transmit multi-node signals to a central station, where distributed compressive sampling (DCS) based on the random demodulator (RD) model is employed to simultaneously identify the signal spectrum. By exploiting signal correlations among nodes, DCS achieves a higher compression ratio of the sampling rate than single-node compressive sampling (CS). In a semi-physical simulation experiment, we demonstrate the feasibility of the approach by recovering the spectra of two wideband sparse signals from nodes located 20 km and 10 km away. The spectra of two signals with a mixed support-set sparsity of 2 and 4 are recovered with a compression ratio of 8 and 4, respectively. We further investigate the impact of common parts and the number of nodes on PDCS performance through numerical simulation. The proposed system takes advantage of the ultra-high bandwidth of photonic technology and the low loss of optical fiber transmission, making it suitable for long-distance, multi-node, and large-coverage electromagnetic spectrum identification.
Marketing político electoral en Twitter
Authors: Gil Sanromán Íngrid , Sanz del Bas Raquel
Published: November 2023

El presente estudio realiza un análisis comunicativo de la red social Twitter de dos partidos políticos, Vox y Podemos, durante la precampaña a las elecciones de la Comunidad de Madrid de 2021. En la investigación, se recogen datos relativos a sus perfiles en Twitter, el número de seguidores, el total de cuentas a las que siguen, el número de publicaciones realizadas durante la precampaña, la frecuencia, el tipo de tuits y las categorías a las que pertenecen, las propuestas de acciones políticas reflejadas y los medios empleados, así como la interacción con los usuarios a través de retuits y el número de publicaciones marcadas como favoritas. El estudio arroja varias tendencias que comparten ambos partidos: comparten tuits preexistentes, se emplea el vídeo o la imagen, las publicaciones son de carácter informativo o de protesta, no se informa acerca de futuras líneas de acción política y la interacción entre usuarios y cuentas es baja.
Análisis de las palabras chinas con carga cultural y su traducción tomando el poema chino «Chang Gan Xing» como ejemplo
Authors: Wu Tong
Published: November 2023

Los poemas antiguos chinos contienen muchas categorías de palabras que implican connotaciones culturales, y la traducción errónea de éstas puede llevar a una mala comprensión del vocabulario o incluso de todo el poema por parte de los lectores de la lengua meta. Por eso, analizaremos la categorización, el significado y las técnicas de traducción de estas palabras, tomando como ejemplo Chang Gan Xing (Balada de Chang Gan), junto con las versiones de Anne-Hélène Suárez y Chen Guojian. Sólo combinando distintas técnicas podrán los lectores experimentar y apreciar los rasgos culturales de la lengua origen y facilitar la comunicación transcultural.
«El maestro enseñaba [con] literatura». La dimensión literaria de la sabiduría en textos del confucionismo clásico
Authors: Ortiz Pereira Daniel
Published: November 2023

El presente artículo se propone resaltar cómo el modelo de sabiduría que se presenta en los dos textos más prominentes del confucianismo clásico, las Analectas y el Mencio, deriva de una experiencia eminentemente literaria. El carácter abierto y dinámico del texto y la palabra, por oposición a la completitud y artificiosidad del concepto y el sistema, son las condiciones necesarias para la fundamentación de un ideal ético y estético que, tomando como base la experiencia individual, supone la conexión con un rico y complejo proceso de reconocimiento colectivo. Todo ello concuerda con la naturaleza inconclusa de la idea filosófica del Camino [道, dào].
La filosofía poética de Miguel de Unamuno
Authors: Villar Ezcurra Alicia
Published: November 2023

A pesar de que Miguel Unamuno fue poco partidario de etiquetas y clasificaciones, él mismo calificó a su filosofía como poética. En este artículo, recogiendo referencias no solo Del sentimiento trágico de la vida en los hombres y en los pueblos sino también de diversos escritos dispersos en distintos volúmenes de su obra completa, se reflexiona sobre las características más importantes de su vinculación de la filosofía con la poesía en fondo y forma. Asimismo, se analiza la ética que Unamuno desprende de su sentimiento trágico de la vida.
Analisis Yuridis Komparasi Penyelesaian Kepailitan Transnasional di Singapura dan Malaysia dengan Penyelesaian di Indonesia
Authors: Sihotang Angreina Larose , Mahmudah Siti , Musyafa Aisyah Ayu , Ardani Mira Novana
Published: November 2023

Transnational bankruptcy resolution is still a legal problem in ASEAN. This problem arises because there is no harmonization of legal regulations regarding transnational bankruptcy in ASEAN. Several countries in ASEAN are taking other ways to overcome this problem. This is done by entering into bilateral agreements or by adopting the UNCITRAL Model Law. Indonesia still does not strictly regulate transnational bankruptcy. Looking at the problems above, in this journal a comparison will be made regarding the resolution of transnational bankruptcy in Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia as well as the application of international law in Indonesia in resolving transnational bankruptcy. This research was prepared with the aim of knowing and analyzing the legal regulations regarding transnational bankruptcy in ASEAN as well as identifying and analyzing the roots of obstacles to transnational bankruptcy in Indonesia. normative and comparative juridical approach methods, namely research that is focused on reviewing and comparing library materials or secondary data such as statutory regulations, international regulations, legal works using analytical descriptive research specifications and studied using qualitative data analysis methods. Based on the results of research and discussions carried out by analyzing decision Number 138/Pdt.Sus-PKPU/2016/PN.Niaga.Jkt.Pst, it was found that Indonesia has not regulated the mechanism for resolving transnational bankruptcy, so it is necessary to apply international law in resolving it by resorting to petition efforts. recognition and implementation of the bankruptcy decision in the country concerned.
An Analysis of Mediating Role of Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy among Indian and Taiwanese University Students
Authors: Chang Jen-Chia , Khan Ehsan
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study is to explore the mediating effect of entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE) on the relationship between entrepreneurship education (EE) and the entrepreneurial intention (EI) of students belonging to the University of India and Taiwan also access the entrepreneurial self-efficacy level of India and Taiwan university students. The participants of this study included 299 university students (undergraduate and graduate) from India and Taiwan, the data was collected by online questionnaire survey circulated by mail. In the study, the researchers performed One-Way ANOVA, Correlation analysis, and Linear Regression analysis to check the hypothesis and at the end mediation analysis through “The process Macro” in SPSS software. The findings showed that: (1) there is no discernible difference between Indian and Taiwanese students' entrepreneurial intention (EI) features, and (2) Taiwanese students had greater levels of entrepreneurial self-efficacy than Indian university students. (3) Entrepreneurship education significantly impact the entrepreneurial intention and self-efficacy of the Indian and Taiwanese university. (4) The association between entrepreneurship education and entrepreneurial self-efficacy is significantly favorable, however, the relationship between entrepreneurship education and entrepreneurial intention is partially impacted by the mediating effect of entrepreneurial self-efficacy.
Estimates for bilinear θ-type generalized fractional integral and its commutator on new non-homogeneous generalized Morrey spaces
Authors: Lu Guanghui , Wang Miaomiao , Tao Shuangping
Published: November 2023

Let

(

X
,
d
,
μ

)

\left({\mathcal{X}},d,\mu )

be a non-homogeneous metric measure space satisfying the geometrically doubling and upper doubling conditions. In this setting, we first introduce a generalized Morrey space

M

p

u

(

μ

)

{M}_{p}^{u}\left(\mu )

, where

1
≤
p
<
∞

1\le p\lt \infty

and

u

(

x
,
r

)

:
X
×

(

0
,
∞

)

→

(

0
,
∞

)

u\left(x,r):{\mathcal{X}}\times \left(0,\infty )\to \left(0,\infty )

is a Lebesgue measurable function. Furthermore, under assumption that the measurable functions

u

1

,

u

2

{u}_{1},{u}_{2}

, and

u

u

belong to

W

τ

{{\mathbb{W}}}_{\tau }

with

τ
∈

(

0
,
2

)

\tau \in \left(0,2)

, we prove that the bilinear

θ

\theta

-type generalized fractional integral

T

˜

θ
,
α

{\widetilde{T}}_{\theta ,\alpha }

is bounded from the product of spaces

M

p

1

u

1

(

μ

)

×

M

p

2

u

2

(

μ

)

{M}_{{p}_{1}}^{{u}_{1}}\left(\mu )\times {M}_{{p}_{2}}^{{u}_{2}}\left(\mu )

into spaces

M

q

u

(

μ

)

{M}_{q}^{u}\left(\mu )

, where

u

1

u

2

=
u

{u}_{1}{u}_{2}=u

,

α
∈

(

0
,
1

)

\alpha \in \left(0,1)

, and

1

q

=

1

p

1

+

1

p

2

−
2
α

\frac{1}{q}=\frac{1}{{p}_{1}}+\frac{1}{{p}_{2}}-2\alpha

with

p

1

,

p

2

∈

(

1
,

1

α

)

{p}_{1},{p}_{2}\in \left(1,\frac{1}{\alpha })

, and also show that the

T

˜

θ
,
α

{\widetilde{T}}_{\theta ,\alpha }

is bounded from the product of spaces

M

p

1

u

1

(

μ

)

×

M

p

2

u

2

(

μ

)

{M}_{{p}_{1}}^{{u}_{1}}\left(\mu )\times {M}_{{p}_{2}}^{{u}_{2}}\left(\mu )

into spaces

M

1

u

(

μ

)

{M}_{1}^{u}\left(\mu )

, where

1
=

1

p

1

+

1

p

2

−
2
α

1=\frac{1}{{p}_{1}}+\frac{1}{{p}_{2}}-2\alpha

. Meanwhile, we prove that the commutator

T

˜

θ
,
α
,

b

1

,

b

2

{\widetilde{T}}_{\theta ,\alpha ,{b}_{1},{b}_{2}}

formed by

b

1

,

b

2

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Quo vadis, Onleihe? Ein Rück- und Ausblick aus Rheinland-Pfalz
Authors: Kalb Florian
Published: November 2023

Dass seit rund 15 Jahren in immer mehr Öffentlichen Bibliotheken auch eine Ausleihe digitaler Medien möglich ist, liegt maßgeblich am Start der OnleiheOnleihe ist ein Portemanteau-Wort mit den Bestandteilen „online“ und „ausleihen“. im Jahr 2007, die einen Paradigmenwechsel in den deutschen Öffentlichen Bibliotheken eingeläutet hat. Dieser Artikel gibt einen Überblick über die Entwicklung der Onleihe im Allgemeinen, beleuchtet dabei aber auch die speziellen Gegebenheiten in einem Flächenland wie Rheinland-Pfalz. Darüber hinaus kommen häufige Kritikpunkte wie die bekannte Lizenzproblematik im Bereich E-Lending sowie technische Probleme mit der Plattform, aber auch Lösungsansätze zu diesen Problematiken zur Sprache.
Influence of solvent-free extraction of fish oil from catfish (Clarias magur) heads using a Taguchi orthogonal array design: A qualitative and quantitative approach
Authors: Dave Jaydeep , Ali Ali Muhammed Moula , Kudre Tanaji , Nukhthamna Pikunthong , Kumar Nishant , Kieliszek Marek , Bavisetty Sri Charan Bindu
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to efficiently utilize catfish heads, enhancing the oil extraction process while improving the cost-effectiveness of fish byproduct management. The study employed the wet rendering method, a solvent-free approach, utilizing a two-factor Taguchi orthogonal array design to identify critical parameters for optimizing oil yield and ensuring high-quality oil attributes. The extraction temperature (80–120°C) and time (5–25 min) were chosen as variables in the wet rendering process. Range analysis identified the extraction time as a more significant (p < 0.05) factor for most parameters, including oil yield, oil recovery, acid value, free fatty acids, peroxide value, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances. The extraction temperature was more significant (p < 0.05) for oil color. Consequently, the wet rendering method was optimized, resulting in an extraction temperature of 80°C and an extraction time of 25 min, yielding the highest oil yield. This optimized wet rendering process recovered 6.37 g/100 g of oil with an impressive 54.16% oil recovery rate, demonstrating comparable performance to traditional solvent extraction methods. Moreover, Fourier transfer infrared spectra analysis revealed distinct peaks associated with triacylglycerols and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). The oil recovered under optimized conditions contained higher levels of PUFA, including oleic acid (189.92 μg/g of oil), linoleic acid (169.92 μg/g of oil), eicosapentaenoic acid (17.41 μg/g of oil), and docosahexaenoic acid (20.82 μg/g of oil). Volatile compound analysis revealed lower levels of secondary oxidation compounds under optimized conditions. This optimized wet rendering method offers practical advantages in terms of cost-efficiency, sustainability, reduced environmental impact, and enhanced oil quality, making it an attractive option for the fish processing industries. Future research possibilities may include the purification of the catfish head oil and its application in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Cultural Studies, Big Data, Scalability: Benjamin Versus Bourdieu
Authors: Beebee Thomas Oliver
Published: November 2023

This essay argues that to be true to its name, Cultural Studies relies on a Big Data tapestry of culture against which individual events may be foregrounded. In the majority of cases, this cultural background is the implied first premise of a syllogism and the scholarly argument becomes an enthymeme. Sometimes, however, the presentation of Big Data becomes the argument in and of itself. After explaining the concept of Cultural Studies with which I am working, as well as the definition and difficulties posed by Big Data, I analyze and compare two precursor works that plainly gather and analyze Big Data to explain cultural moments: Walter Benjamin’s Passagen-Werk (Arcades Project); and Pierre Bourdieu’s La distinction (Distinction). Both works raise the question of how their examples can be scaled to the totalizing visions of culture that they seek, and the two researchers take wildly different approaches to the question of scalability that always lurks behind Big Data approaches.
Performance evaluation of a novel high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T assay: analytical and clinical perspectives
Authors: Li Zhongxin , Yang Shuo , Qiao Jiao , Tan Yuan , Liu Qi , Yang Boxin , Feng Weimin , Cui Liyan
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To evaluate the analytical characteristics of a novel high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) test on the automatic light-initiated chemiluminescent assay (LiCA®) system, and validated its diagnostic performance for non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI).

Methods

Studies included an extensive analytical evaluation and established the 99th percentile upper reference limit (URL) from apparently healthy individuals, followed by a diagnostic performance validation for NSTEMI.

Results

Sex-specific 99th percentile URLs were 16.0 ng/L (1.7 % CV: coefficient of variation) for men (21–92 years) and 13.4 ng/L (2.0 % CV) for women (23–87 years) in serum, and 30.6 ng/L (0.9 % CV) for men (18–87 years) and 20.2 ng/L (1.4 % CV) for women (18–88 years) in heparin plasma. Detection rates in healthy individuals ranged from 98.9 to 100 %. An excellent agreement was identified between LiCA® and Elecsys® assays with a correlation coefficient of 0.993 and mean bias of −0.7 % (−1.8–0.4 %) across the full measuring range, while the correlation coefficient and overall bias were 0.967 and −1.1 % (−2.5–0.3 %) for the lower levels of cTnT (10–100 ng/L), respectively. At the specific medical decision levels (14.0 and 52.0 ng/L), assay difference was estimated to be <5.0 %. No significant difference was found between these two assays in terms of area under curve (AUC), sensitivity and specificity, negative predictive value (NPV) and positive predictive value (PPV) for the diagnosis of NSTEMI.

Conclusions

LiCA® hs-cTnT is a reliable 3rd-generation (level 4) high-sensitivity assay for detecting cardiac troponin T. The assay is acceptable for practical use in the diagnosis of NSTEMI.
A model for managing quality control for a network of clinical chemistry instruments measuring the same analyte
Authors: Giannoli Jean-Marc , Bernard Mathieu , L’Hirondel Julien , Heim André , Badrick Tony
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Monitoring quality control for a laboratory or network with multiple instruments measuring the same analyte is challenging. We present a retrospective assessment of a method to detect medically significant out-of-control error conditions across a group of instruments measuring the same analyte. The purpose of the model was to ensure that results from any of several instruments measuring the same analytes in a laboratory or a network of laboratories provide comparable results and reduce patient risk. Limited literature has described how to manage QC in these very common situations.

Methods

Single Levey–Jennings control charts were designed using peer group target mean and control limits for five common clinical chemistry analytes in a network of eight analyzers in two different geographical sites. The QC rules used were 13s/22s/R4s, with the mean being a peer group mean derived from a large population of the same instrument and the same QC batch mean and a group CV. The peer group data used to set the target means and limits were from a quality assurance program supplied by the instrument supplier. Both statistical and clinical assessments of significance were used to evaluate QC failure. Instrument bias was continually monitored.

Results

It was demonstrated that the biases of each instrument were not statistically or clinically different compared to the peer group’s average over six months from February 2023 until July 2023. Over this period, the error rate determined by the QC model was consistent with statistical expectations for the 13s/22s/R4s rule. There were no external quality assurance failures, and no detected error exceeded the TEa (medical impact). Thus, the combined statistical/clinical assessment reduced unnecessary recalibrations and the need to amend results.

Conclusions

This paper describes the successful implementation of a quality control model for monitoring a network of instruments, measuring the same analytes and using externally provided quality control targets. The model continually assesses individual instrument bias and imprecision while ensuring all instruments in the network meet clinical goals for quality. The focus of this approach is on detecting medically significant out-of-control error conditions.
Estimation of the reference values and decision limits for growth hormone in newborns using dried blood spots
Authors: Vidali Matteo , Giacchetti Federico , Sangiorgio Andrea , Vantaggiato Chiara , Rodari Giulia , Orsenigo Chiara , Di Modugno Adriana , Napolitano Filomena , Morniroli Daniela , Colombo Lorenzo , Profka Eriselda , Vizzari Giulia , Mosca Fabio , Ceriotti Ferruccio , Mantovani Giovanna , Arosio Maura , Giannì Maria L. , Giavoli Claudia
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Severe deficiency of growth hormone (GHD) of the newborn is a rare but potentially life-threatening disease. GH measured during the first week of life, using dried blood spots (DBS), may offer several advantages. Aim of the study was to estimate the reference values for GH in newborns by a new analytical method using DBS.

Methods

Using a new developed analytical method, GH was estimated from DBS of 1,036 healthy newborns attending the Neonatology Unit of Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico of Milan in the period July–October 2021. Reference values for GH deficiency were estimated by the Harrell–Davis bootstrap method, with 90 %CI calculated by the bias-corrected and accelerated bootstrap method.

Results

All GH measurements required 33 analytical sessions (8 months) with a CV% for calibration curve slopes equal to 6.9 %. Intermediate precision evaluated by measurement of low (3 μg/L) and high (10 μg/L) quality controls was, respectively, 14 and 6.5 %. GH reference values, estimated at percentiles 1.0st, 2.5th and 5.0th, and their 90 %CI, were, respectively, 4.5 μg/L (90 %CI 3.8–5.1), 5.9 μg/L (90 %CI 5.4–6.4) and 7.0 μg/L (90 %CI 6.7–7.3). GH levels were not associated with sex, standard deviation scores, birth weight, gestational age, type of delivery or mother’s variables (age, smoking habit, gestational diabetes).

Conclusions

Validation data suggest that this method can be used to measured GH in newborns using DBS. The reference values estimated in this study are in accordance with previous published works using ELISA and may help confirming the clinical suspicion of neonatal GHD.
The valuation pairing on an upper cluster algebra
Authors: Cao Peigen , Keller Bernhard , Qin Fan
Published: November 2023

It is known that many (upper) cluster algebras are not unique factorization domains. We exhibit the local factorization properties with respect to any given seedt: any non-zero element in a full rank upper cluster algebra can be uniquely written as the product of a cluster monomial intand another element not divisible by the cluster variables int. Our approach is based on introducing the valuation pairing on an upper cluster algebra: it counts the maximal multiplicity of a cluster variable among the factorizations of any given element. We apply the valuation pairing to obtain many results concerning factoriality,d-vectors,F-polynomials and the combinatorics of cluster Poisson variables. In particular, we obtain that full rank and primitive upper cluster algebras are factorial; an explanation ofd-vectors using valuation pairing; a cluster monomial in non-initial cluster variables is determined by itsF-polynomial; theF-polynomials of non-initial cluster variables are irreducible; and the cluster Poisson variables parametrize the exchange pairs of the corresponding upper cluster algebra.
On the problem of detecting source points acting on a fluid
Authors: Abdelwahed Mohamed , Chorfi Nejmeddine
Published: November 2023

The detection problem of a finite number of source points acting on a steady incompressible fluid flow from overdetermined boundary data was studied. The approach used in this study deals with the topological sensitivity technique. An asymptotic analysis of a prescribed cost function with respect to the domain perturbation was developed. Some numerical results to illustrate the efficiency and robustness of the developed source point detection algorithm were presented.
The Reform of the European Fiscal Rules: In Search of Mechanisms Ensuring Sustainable Debt Levels
Authors: de Haan Jakob , Amtenbrink Fabian
Published: November 2023

Central to the recent European Commission’s proposals for the reform of the current fiscal rules is the introduction of national medium-term fiscal structural plans. The proposed emphasis on compliance with country-specific net expenditure trajectories aimed at government debt sustainability is to be welcomed. However, several details of this expenditure path are either not clear or run the risk of political manipulation. What is more, maintaining the one-size fits all 3 % threshold for the budget balance undermines several of the acclaimed advantages of the proposed new governance system, including that it would be simpler and less pro-cyclical. Furthermore, enforcement under the proposed framework is also unlikely to be stronger than under the current framework. Last, but not least, the proposal does not discuss the need for an EU framework for debt restructuring.
Religious Group Affect and Support for First Amendment Liberties
Authors: Bennett Daniel , Strother Logan
Published: November 2023

The First Amendment guarantees protection for religious exercise in the United States. But for some, the question of who should benefit from these protections seems to hinge on the identity of the religious group seeking these protections. In this article, we explore the extent to which people’s attitudes toward different religious groups affects their support for First Amendment protections as applied to these groups. We also examine whether it is possible to mitigate these effects, asking whether respondents can be primed to consider tolerance when evaluating rights claims, and if so, whether this increases support for rights in general. Our results have important implications for tolerance and rights in a diverse, pluralistic society, and shed light on what the future might hold for public opinion on constitutional rights and liberties.
Wide angle metamaterial absorber for S, C and X band application
Authors: Shukla Pavan Kumar , Gupta Neelesh Kumar , Mishra Achyuta Nand , Sharmila  , Singh Apranjal , Barde Chetan
Published: November 2023

In this article, an angle independent Metamaterial Microwave Absorbers (MMA) is designed and demonstrated. The design consists of two concentric hexagon connected through consolidated resistors. The absorber is imprinted on a metal-backed low cost FR4 dielectric substrate with a thickness of 3.2 mm (λ/0.07) and a dielectric constant of 4.3. The proposed structure exhibits a wide absorption bandwidth ranging from 2.8 to 10.42 GHz with absorptivity above 90 % covering S, C and X Band. In the area of interest, the current and electric field distribution has been examined, for two maximum peaks at a frequency of 3.66 and 9.54 GHz, with maximum absorptivity of 99.99 % and 99.44 % respectively. The presented absorber is examined under different polarization angles for phi and theta variation. The fabricated sheet consists of an array of a unit cell, which is examined inside the anechoic chamber with the help of two horn antennas and VNA. The tested and simulated results are compared and it was found that they are almost similar to each other with little variation due to fabrication tolerance. The presented absorber can be practically used for defence applications for Radar Cross Sections (RCS) reduction.