bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dog walking during the lockdown in the Covid-19 pandemic situation in the Czech Republic: a questionnaire survey
Authors: Machová Kristýna , Zítek Štěpán , Daďová Klára , Procházková Radka
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to compare the frequency, duration, and location of dog walking during and before the first Covid-19 lockdown (LD) and possible variable factors. The research team interviewed 504 adult Czech dog owners using an online questionnaire regarding their dog walking activity. During the LD in April 2020, the frequency of dog walking was significantly lower, and a single walk duration was significantly higher than before (p < 0.001). The preference for locations also changed during the LD. Dog walking was considered beneficial for physical activity (PA) and daily rhythm. Factors related to dog walking frequency during the LD were age (p = 0.016) and the length of working/studying hours (p < 0.001). These factors were significant before and during the LD: the number of children (p < 0.001), the number of household members (p = 0.044), and the type of housing (p = 0.006). This study brings a broad amount of data on current trends and changes in dog walking during the unprecedented lockdown, which might contribute to the organisation of public health or research methodology in future relatable situations.
Žehnání párům stejného pohlaví v Českobratrské církvi evangelické
Authors: Vančová Eliška
Published: January 2024

Blessing Same-sex Couples in the Evangelical Church of Czech Brethren. As part of the efforts to protect minorities, the issue of the social status of intimate relationship between two people of the same sex has come to the fore in recent years. This article examines how the Evangelical Church of Czech Brethren (hereafter ECCB) deals with same-sex couples in its liturgical life. Because of the lack of relevant data, the presentation of the practice of blessing same-sex couples in the ECCB in this article is based on research. The research consists of two parts. The first one is a questionnaire survey examining how widespread the blessing of samesex couples in the Church is and what factors play a role. The second part, in the form of a case study, shows what a worship gathering on this occasion might look like in practice.
Politické kázání. Impuls k diskusi
Authors: Macek Ondřej
Published: January 2024

A Political Sermon. An Impulse for Discussion. The author points to the fact that in the Czech Protestant environment, there has not yet been a professional discussion on how to reflect contemporary political issues at the pulpit. He points to Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s thesis that the church must be able to pronounce the word of God here and now, from knowledge of the political matter, getting to the core. Building particularly on contemporary German literature, he not only summarizes the arguments for “political sermons” and suggests what form they might take, but he also discusses the risks involved. Finally, he stresses that preaching is part of a worship service in which people pray for politicians and good governance and also celebrate the Eucharist – experiencing the new world and carrying parts of it into the present one.
Recenze: Ondřej Macek a kol.: Cesty k lidem. Kapitoly z duchovní péče
Authors: Kolář Ondřej
Published: January 2024

Recenze: Ondřej Macek a kol.: Cesty k lidem. Kapitoly z duchovní péče
A superficial dissection approach to the sphenopalatine (pterygopalatine) ganglion to emphasize osteopathic clinical relevance
Authors: Matz Olivia C. , Rudberg-Post Laura J. , Gustafson Hannah C. , Matz Donald G.
Published: January 2024

The sphenopalatine (pterygopalatine) ganglion (SPG) is the most superficial ganglia to manipulate from the oral cavity. It has parasympathetic and sensory fibers directly affecting the paranasal sinuses as well as the palatine, nasal, pharyngeal, and lacrimal glands. The SPG can be manipulated intraorally by students and physicians utilizing osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) to relieve congestion associated with sinusitis, allergies, headaches, and upper respiratory infections. Within osteopathic medical education programs, students have anecdotally had difficulty identifying this ganglion due to its deep anatomic location and lack of direct visualization. In this article, we discuss that cadaveric dissection with a superficial to deep approach to the SPG has the ability to allow medical students and physicians to better understand the three-dimensional location and osteopathic clinical relevance of this ganglion.
Introduction: the multimodality of cringe comedy in screen and digital media productions
Authors: Elyamany Nashwa , Elshazly Deena Shazly
Published: January 2024

The millennial moment reflects an occupation with truth aiming for clear interpretations of the surrounding reality. Owing to the political conditions at the turn of the twenty-first century, both media and literary forms showed considerable interest in documentation. As inspections of truth yield no precise results, documentation shape-shifted into self-reflective presentations of social and personal failings. According to Patrick (Wöhrle, Patrick. 2021. Two shades of cringe: Problems in attributing painful laughter. Humanities 10(3). 99. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/h10030099.), media has developed patterns of presentations that irritate rather than settle the viewers’ down thus destabilizing the conventional sender–message–recipient format. Interestingly, literary treatments have shown similar tendencies towards more integration of the spectator. Engagement with social or political conditions stems originally from a gap between what we know and what we see which engenders humour at many occasions based on superiority or incongruity. In post-millennial times especially with the Covid-19 outbreak, feeling strange, awkward or embarrassed are feelings of the mundane. Here, cringe comedy is a forerunner. Cringe humour holds deep sense of incongruity once attending to the ambivalence the term carries. Humour, which is supposedly a tool of both pleasure and relief, becomes rather a trigger of some painful visceral affect that ‘cringes’.
Pull-out strength of screws in long bones at different insertion angles: finite element analysis and experimental investigations
Authors: İyibilgin Osman , Gepek Engin , Bayam Levent , Drampalos Efstathios , Shoaib Amer
Published: January 2024

Different types of plates are available to allow insertion of screws for internal fixation of long bone fractures. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of the insertion of screws at different angles on a long bone to the pull-out strength. Using 3D printed bone models, we tested the pull-out strength of screws in long bones at insertion angles between 0 and 40° with both finite element analysis and on printed models experimentally and compared the results. Test samples and cortical screws used were modeled with SolidWorks software and analyzed with Ansys software. As the screw insertion angle increases, the pull-out forces on the test specimens increase from 61.14 ± 3.5 N at 0° to 273 ± 6.8 N at 40° with an exception of a small drop between 15 and 20° from 235.4 ± 6.2 to 233 ± 6.9 N. Both methods showed an increase in the pull-out strength of screws as the insertion angle increases. This might be applicable in the clinical practice of bone fixation. Further studies on plate and screw fixation are needed to complement the findings.
Strong coupling in metal-semiconductor microcavities featuring Ge quantum wells: a perspective study
Authors: Faverzani Marco , Calcaterra Stefano , Biagioni Paolo , Frigerio Jacopo
Published: January 2024

In this work we theoretically investigate the possibility of observing strong coupling at mid-infrared frequencies within the group-IV semiconductor material platform. Our results show that the strong coupling condition is attainable in Ge/SiGe quantum wells integrated in hybrid metal-semiconductor microcavities, featuring a highly n-doped SiGe layer as one of the mirrors.
Crystal structure of (Z)-4-((4,5,6-trimethoxy-3-oxobenzofuran-2(3H)-ylidene)methyl)phenyl diphenylphosphinate, C30H25O7P
Authors: Wang Hua-Bin , Xu Lian-Hua , Shi Ju-Mei , An Jiang-Yong
Published: January 2024

C30H25O7P, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 12.1091(3) Å, b = 8.0535(2) Å, c = 25.4435(6) Å, β = 92.169(2)°, V = 2479.49(10) Å3, Z = 4, Rgt
(F) = 0.0438, wRref
(F
2) = 0.1219, T = 150 K.
Luminescence of silver, thulium and ytterbium doped oxyfluoride glasses
Authors: Shestakov Mikhail V. , Moshchalkov Victor V.
Published: January 2024

Silver and lanthanide (Tm3+, Yb3+) doped oxyfluoride glasses have been prepared by melt-quenching method. The absorption of the glasses was measured in the range from 350 to 550 nm revealing the absorption edges of Ag nanoclusters and Tm3+ transition. The photoluminescence spectra of the glasses were detected in the range from 400 to 1100 nm under excitation in the range from 300 to 500 nm. The photoluminescence excitation spectra showed that Ag nanoclusters and Tm3+ ions can effectively harvest energy in UV-range and convert to visible and infrared (through emission by Yb3+ ions) ranges making the glasses perspective as white light emitters and solar spectrum downconverters.
Genetic Associations With Acceleration, Change of Direction, Jump Height, and Speed in English Academy Football Players
Authors: McAuley Alexander B. T. , Hughes David C. , Tsaprouni Loukia G. , Varley Ian , Suraci Bruce , Bradley Ben , Baker Joseph , Herbert Adam J. , Kelly Adam L.
Published: January 2024

McAuley, ABT, Hughes, DC, Tsaprouni, LG, Varley, I, Suraci, B, Bradley, B, Baker, J, Herbert, AJ, and Kelly, AL. Genetic associations with acceleration, change of direction, jump height, and speed in English academy football players. J Strength Cond Res 38(2): 350–359, 2024—High-intensity movements and explosive actions are commonly assessed during athlete development in football (soccer). Although many environmental factors underpin these power-orientated traits, research suggests that there is also a sizeable genetic component. Therefore, this study examined the association of 22 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with acceleration, change of direction, jump height, and speed in academy football players. One hundred and forty-nine, male, under-12 to under-23 football players from 4 English academies were examined. Subjects performed 5-, 10-, 20-, and 30-m sprints, countermovement jumps (CMJs), and the 5-0-5 agility test. Simple linear regression was used to analyze individual SNP associations, whereas both unweighted and weighted total genotype scores (TGS; TWGS) were computed to measure the combined influence of all SNPs. To control for multiple testing, a Benjamini-Hochberg false discovery rate of 0.05 was applied to all genotype model comparisons. In isolation, the GALNT13 (rs10196189) G allele and IL6 (rs1800795) G/G genotype were associated with faster (∼4%) 5-, 10-, and 20-m sprints and higher (∼16%) CMJs, respectively (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the TGS and TWGS significantly correlated with all performance assessments, explaining between 6 and 33% of the variance (p < 0.001). This study demonstrates that some genetic variants are associated with power-orientated phenotypes in youth football players and may add value toward a future polygenic profile of physical performance.
On the Outflow Boundary Opening Size for Internal Erosion Testing of Widely Graded Sand and Gravel
Authors: Vinoth Ganapathiraman , Fannin R. Jonathan
Published: January 2024

Permeameter testing of a widely graded soil to evaluate its potential for internal instability requires the opening size of the outflow boundary to allow unstable finer fraction particles to pass while retaining the stable coarser fraction. Results from a parametric study, on three widely graded soils and five outflow boundaries, yielded paired-data for opening size Om and d85,e of eroded soil mass passing through the outflow boundary. Gradation shape analysis established d85′ of the finer fraction of each soil used in testing. An opening size ratio 5 ≤ Om/d85′ ≤ 10 correlates with a grain size ratio 1 ≤ d85,e/d85′ ≤ 2 and thus an eroded soil mass believed representative of the finer fraction of the widely graded soil. The novel Om/d85′ criterion for sizing the outflow boundary in permeameter testing is found consistent with an alternate criterion using concepts of base-filter incompatibility.
Plasticity in the functional properties of NMDA receptors improves network stability during severe energy stress
Authors: Bueschke Nikolaus , Amaral-Silva Lara , Hu Min , Alvarez Alvaro , Santin Joseph M.
Published: January 2024

Brain energy stress leads to neuronal hyperexcitability followed by a rapid loss of function and cell death. In contrast, the frog brainstem switches into a state of extreme metabolic resilience that allows them to maintain motor function during hypoxia as they emerge from hibernation. NMDA receptors (NMDARs) are Ca2+-permeable glutamate receptors that contribute to the loss of homeostasis during hypoxia. Therefore, we hypothesized that hibernation leads to plasticity that reduces the role of NMDARs within neural networks to improve function during energy stress. To test this, we assessed a circuit with a large involvement of NMDAR synapses, the brainstem respiratory network of female bullfrogs,Lithobates catesbeianus. Contrary to our expectations, hibernation did not alter the role of NMDARs in generating network output, nor did it affect the amplitude, kinetics, and hypoxia sensitivity of NMDAR currents. Instead, hibernation strongly reduced NMDAR Ca2+permeability and enhanced desensitization during repetitive stimulation. Under severe hypoxia, the normal NMDAR profile caused network hyperexcitability within minutes, which was mitigated by blocking NMDARs. After hibernation, the modified complement of NMDARs protected against hyperexcitability, as disordered output did not occur for at least one hour in hypoxia. These findings uncover state-dependence in the plasticity of NMDARs, whereby multiple changes to receptor function improve neural performance during energy stress without interfering with its normal role during healthy activity.

Significance StatementNMDA-glutamate receptors play a major role in the loss of brain homeostasis during energy stress. In contrast, frogs have the remarkable capacity to use plasticity that improves brainstem circuit function from minutes to hours during hypoxia, likely as an adaptation to survive emergence from hibernation. We found this occurs, in part, through modification of NMDA receptors that renders them less permeable to Ca2+and more likely to desensitize during high activity states. These NMDA receptor modifications do not influence normal network function but protect against hyperexcitability caused by hypoxia. This work points to endogenous plasticity mechanisms that improve network function during energy stress without altering circuit function when the brain is well-oxygenated.
Caldendrin Is a Repressor of PIEZO2 Channels and Touch Sensation in Mice
Authors: Lopez Josue A. , Romero Luis O. , Kaung Wai-Lin , Maddox J. Wesley , Vásquez Valeria , Lee Amy
Published: January 2024

The sense of touch is crucial for cognitive, emotional, and social development and relies on mechanically activated (MA) ion channels that transduce force into an electrical signal. Despite advances in the molecular characterization of these channels, the physiological factors that control their activity are poorly understood. Here, we used behavioral assays, electrophysiological recordings, and various mouse strains (males and females analyzed separately) to investigate the role of the calmodulin-like Ca2+sensor, caldendrin, as a key regulator of MA channels and their roles in touch sensation. In mice lacking caldendrin (Cabp1KO), heightened responses to tactile stimuli correlate with enlarged MA currents with lower mechanical thresholds in dorsal root ganglion neurons (DRGNs). The expression pattern of caldendrin in the DRG parallels that of the major MA channel required for touch sensation, PIEZO2. In transfected cells, caldendrin interacts with and inhibits the activity of PIEZO2 in a manner that requires an alternatively spliced sequence in the N-terminal domain of caldendrin. Moreover, targeted genetic deletion of caldendrin inPiezo2-expressing DRGNs phenocopies the tactile hypersensitivity of completeCabp1KO mice. We conclude that caldendrin is an endogenous repressor of PIEZO2 channels and their contributions to touch sensation in DRGNs.
Deviance detection to natural stimuli in population responses of the brainstem of bats
Authors: Wetekam Johannes , Hechavarría Julio , López-Jury Luciana , González-Palomares Eugenia , Kössl Manfred
Published: January 2024

Deviance detection describes an increase of neural response strength caused by a stimulus with a low probability of occurrence. This ubiquitous phenomenon has been reported for humans and multiple other species, from subthalamic areas to the auditory cortex. Cortical deviance detection has been well characterised by a range of studies using a variety of different stimuli, from artificial to natural, with and without a behavioural relevance. This allowed the identification of a broad variety of regularity deviations that are detected by the cortex. Moreover, subcortical deviance detection has been studied with simple stimuli that are not meaningful to the subject. Here, we aim to bridge this gap by using noninvasively recorded auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) to investigate deviance detection at population level in the lower stations of the auditory system of a highly vocal species: the batCarollia perspicillata(of either sex). Our present approach uses behaviourally relevant vocalisation stimuli that are similar to the animals’ natural soundscape. We show that deviance detection in ABRs is significantly stronger for echolocation pulses than for social communication calls or artificial sounds, indicating that subthalamic deviance detection depends on the behavioural meaning of a stimulus. Additionally, complex physical sound features like frequency- and amplitude-modulation affected the strength of deviance detection in the ABR. In summary, our results suggest that the brain can detect different types of deviants already in the brainstem, showing that subthalamic brain structures exhibit more advanced forms of deviance detection than previously known.

Significance statementBats, like all mammals, rely on the identification of regulations and deviations in their acoustic environment. This phenomenon, called deviance detection, has been studied intensively in the past and keeps gaining attention in the field of electrophysiology. Over time, an impressive complexity of deviance detection could be shown, in both animal and human studies. However, complex forms of auditory deviance detection were so far only demonstrated for high-level brain structures. In this study, we show that complex deviance detection beyond simple frequency changes of auditory stimuli is already present in the lowest stations of the auditory pathway, the brainstem. These potentially feedback mediated effects could contribute significantly to the saving of resources very early in the processing of acoustic sounds.
Effect of undifferentiated connective tissue dysplasia on clinical course of varicose disease and thrombophlebitis of varicose veins after crossectomy
Authors: Tsarev Oleg A. , Zakharov Nikolay N. , Senin Andrey A. , Korchakov Nikita V.
Published: January 2024

Objective: to analyze the features of clinical course of lower limb varicose vein disease and acute thrombophlebitis of varicose veins for the patients with undifferentiated connective tissue dysplasia (UCTD) after crossectomy.
Materials and Methods. The prospective clinical cohort study involved 132 female patients with varicose disease who underwent crossectomy, of which 67 patients with dysplasia were included into the main group, whereas patients without dysplasia were included into the control group. Examination of patients and ultrasound scanning of leg veins were conducted in 3, 6, 12, and 36 months. The Cox regression analysis was used to assess the effect of dysplasia on the risk of developing thrombophlebitis of varicose veins.
Results. The progress of varicose disease clinical manifestations of after crossectomy was detected in 57 (85.1%) female patients with dysplasia and in 14 (21.5%) without it (р=0.002), which resulted in phlebectomy. The recurrent thrombophlebitis of varicose veins was found in 22 (32.8%) female patients with dysplasia vs. 5 (7.7%) without it (р=0.002). Cox regression model Exp (B), which characterizes the predicted change of risks for dysplasia, was 4.216 (95% CI 1.595-11.147).
Conclusion. The clinical course of varicose disease in patients with UCTD is characterized by the progression of clinical manifestations of chronic venous insufficiency of a lower limb. UCTD results in over 4.2-fold risk of developing the recurrent thrombophlebitis of varicose veins after crossectomy.
Skin autofluorescence as a factor of adverse prognosis in patients with peripheral atherosclerosis
Authors: Davydova Nailya A. , Lebedev Pyotr A. , Ayupov Amir M. , Kornilin Dmitry V. , Grishanov Vladimir N. , Komarova Marina V.
Published: January 2024

Objective: to determine the prognostic value of skin autofluorescence (SAF) as a factor of cardiovascular complications and mortality.
Materials and Methods. Our prospective study included 122 patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD): atherosclerotic stenosis of the brachiocephalic trunk was detected in 95 patient (77.9%), while chronic arterial insufficiency (CAI) of the lower limbs was found in 47 study participants (38.5%). SAF was measured by an original device developed by the authors. Clinical, anthropometric and biochemical parameters, along with instrumental parameters of the heart and blood vessels, were studied via ultrasound examination. The prospective part of the study (follow-up) was carried out for up to 1,043 (on average, 736) days.
Results.The SAF parameter correlated directly and significantly with scores on the scale of clinical prognostic signs, CAI of the lower limbs, and history of surgeries on the leg arteries. In the course of the follow-up period, there were seven deaths and at least one hospitalization for cardiovascular reasons in 42 patients. The most common were hospitalizations due to conservative treatment of CAI, the need for coronary artery bypass grafting, and coronary stenting. Using the logistic regression method, we determined that the incidence of hospitalization or mortality was associated with SAF values, plasma glucose content, and the presence of chronic heart failure above functional class 1. The sensitivity and specificity of the model were 71% and 68%, respectively.
Conclusion.The SAF parameter can be used as an integral independent predictor in patients with multifocal atherosclerosis.
Organ dysfunctions and inflammatory reaction in acute post-manipulation pancreatitis in experiment
Authors: Rantsev Maxim A. , Prudkov Mikhail I. , Chupakhin Oleg N.
Published: January 2024

Objective: to prove the possibility of reducing the severity of the course of organ dysfunctions and inflammatory response with the compound L-17 in the model of acute post-manipulation pancreatitis (APMP). Material and methods. The APMP model was made on 40 rats. Animals were divided into control (without treatment) and experimental (with the introduction of the compound L-17) groups of 20 rats. The daily dose of the compound is 40 mg/kg. Results. APMP developed in all animals. In the control group, persistent organ dysfunction and inflammatory response corresponded to a severe course of acute pancreatitis with a mortality rate of 70%. In the experimental group, there was a decrease in the severity of organ dysfunction and inflammatory response, with a decrease in mortality up to 30%. Conclusion. The use of the compound L-17 reduces the severity of organ dysfunction and inflammatory response during APMP in the experiment.
Alobar form of holoprosencephaly in the fetus and newborn (clinical case)
Authors: Nechaev Vladimir N. , Chernenkov Yuri V.
Published: January 2024

Objective: on the clinical example of the alobar form of fetal and newborn holoprosencephaly, to consider the risk factors for the development of a congenital anomaly and the possibilities of a tactical solution. This clinical case focuses our attention on the complexity of early diagnosis of this congenital pathology, prevention and choosing the right solution to the problem. Differential diagnosis of the alobar form with seven-lobarand other types of holoprosencephaly was carried out. A clinical case of congenital alobar holoprosencephaly was diagnosed prenatally, with a gestation period of 17 weeks. Treatment of this syndrome is symptomatic, surgical correction of some defects is possible. Respiratory and cardiovascular insufficiency predetermine the fatal outcome of the disease. Medical and genetic counseling helps to clarify the risk of the appearance of sick offspring in the future.
Modern content for personalized rehabilitation of patients with a consequences of traumatic brain injury
Authors: Annikov Yuri G. , Krom Irina L. , Levchenko Kristina K. , Tomnikov Maksim D.
Published: January 2024

Objective: to substantiate the significance of quality of life indicators in the formation of modern content of personalized rehabilitation of patients with a consequences of traumatic brain injury. Material and methods. The study included 414 respondents of working age (93.6% men). 54% of the respondents had a traumatic brain injury within 1 to 5 years, in 62,0%, cases the traumatic brain injury was of severe degree. Longitudinal sociological study of the quality of life using the WHOQOL-100 questionnaire was carried out. The Dembo-Rubinstein test was used to diagnose the adequacy of self-assessment of the respondents with TBI. The dynamics of the respondents' neurological status and quality of life were assessed annually during 2020-2022. Results. In the annual study, 64.7% of respondents showed clinical deterioration in 96% of cases, which was manifested by increased severity of general cerebral symptoms, cognitive impairment, and asthenic syndrome. In 4.0% of cases new symptoms manifested (posttraumatic epilepsy). In the dynamic of respondents' quality of life, clinical deterioration in parameters "Physical sphere", "Psychological sphere", "Environment" and "General quality of life and health status" was revealed. Conclusion. In the absence of specific laboratory markers in clinical practice and not always sufficient informativeness of neuroimaging methods for the verification of the consequences of traumatic brain injury, the quality of life can be considered as an important criterion of prognosis, which determines the content of personalised rehabilitation of patients with the consequences of traumatic brain injury.
Improving intersectoral cooperation on public health at the regional level under the context of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Royuk Valery V. , Reshetnikov Vladimir A. , Sidelnikov Sergey A. , Korshever Natan G.
Published: January 2024

Objective: development of organizational technology for improving intersectoral interaction on public health protection at the regional level in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Material and methods. The modeling method was used, which is implemented in the form of flowcharts summarizing obtained materials devoted to the study of the characteristics of the sectors of the state and society interested in protecting public health, the determinants of health, the design of an automated method for multi-vector evaluation of the success of intersectoral interaction in the conditions of COVID-19. Results. The technology of intersectoral interaction on public health protection at the regional level in the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic has been developed and the algorithm of its implementation has been substantiated. At the same time, two modules have been identified, one of which allows to form preventive programs, the other — to improve health care based on the results of a multi-vector assessment of the success of this process. Conclusion. The developed organizational technology makes it possible to contribute to the improvement of intersectoral cooperation on public health protection at the regional level in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Competition between poly-, pluri- and multi- in official French neologisms
Authors: Holeš Jan
Published: January 2024

The article deals with the formation and use of the three prefixes that express plurality in French official terminology, on the example of the 162 terms appearing in FranceTerme and containing the prefixes pluri-, poly- and multi-. Among them, multi- is the most productive (104 terms), followed by poly- (50 terms) and pluri- (8 terms). With regard to the distribution of terms according to the domains, the natural and technical sciences dominate over the social sciences. The comparison with the English equivalents reveals a fairly high correspondence rate, even if 23% of the terms are not constructed in the same way. Relatively frequent substitutions of prefixes between English and French, e.g. pluri- and poly- in French instead of multi- in English, witness about their partial synonymy.
The case for weak null in English
Authors: Tollet Andrew
Published: January 2024

The concept of the null article in English was originally developed as a means of explaining the apparent paradox that singular nouns with the same surface form, namely the non-presence of a grammatical article, are used in quite different communicative situations. Null has been described as the most definite form in the English article system, standing in direct contrast to zero at the opposite end of a scale. Yet, while this may applicable in the case of predicates nouns denoting unique roles, certain institutions where the referent is pragmatically unique, or coordinate structures with a preceding referent, there is persuasive evidence to suggest a considerable number of other null structures do not fit such a description but, on the contrary, share common characteristics with the weak form of the definite article or occupy more of a neutral position which would permit insertion of either one of the surface articles. On this basis, a proposal is advanced to acknowledge two forms of the null article, strong and weak, according to context. Rather than a corpus-based statistical approach, this paper draws upon a smaller selection of contemporary, non-fictional texts from a variety of semantic fields to illustrate the points being made.
Evaluation of antagonistic effects of ethanol leaf extract of Azadirachta indica on tuber rot pathogens of yam tuber
Authors: JY Ijato
Published: January 2024

One of the main constraints to yam availability in Nigeria is losses in storage due to fungal rot. The use of plant extracts for controlling yam rots had rather proved effective. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the effects of ethanol extracts of Azadirachta indica (A. Juss), on four isolated rot fungi: Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus glaucus, Aspergillus niger and Botryodiplodia theobromae. Rot fungi were isolated from infected yam tubers and cultured on potato dextrose agar (PDA). Pathogenicity test was carried out by inoculating the fungal isolates into healthy yam tubers and these were observed for rot symptom while ethanol at varied concentrations were used as extractants on dried and pulverised leaves of the test plant. The effects of the extracts on the fungi were determined using poisoned food method. All the extracts were inhibitive at varied degrees as they significantly inhibited the mycelia growths of the pathogens both in vivo and in vitro with varied percentage inhibition, Both 10% and 50% ethanol extract of A. indica at 50g/100ml inhibited A. niger to 97.67% and 99.17% respectively. All the effects of the extracts on the rot pathogens were significantly different from the effects of the standard and control.
Decriminalizing drug addiction: the effects of the label
Authors: Joyce Joyce Morgan , Sklenar Emmalie , Weatherby Georgie Ann
Published: January 2024

The mass incarceration epidemic related to drug offenses in the United States has caused recent introspection regarding the best technique to employ when future deterrence is the end goal. The focus of this present work centers on the opioid crisis in America and comparable westernized countries worldwide. Emphasis has been placed on a harm reduction approach. This innovative policy is a natural extension of combating the negative impact and damaging result of labeling. When one is allowed to avoid the badge of “criminal,” they can conceivably concentrate on getting clean and staying that way. This includes access to legitimate jobs and ongoing positive role models. A productive, upstanding future life is the ultimate aim.
Dynamic three-dimensional simulation model of soil interaction estrecha narrow tillage tool using the finite element method
Authors: Marin Luis Orlando
Published: January 2024

The most of the soil tillage tool interaction studies realized, both experimental and numeric, has shown the influence of the soil conditions (physical, mechanical and dynamics properties, type of soil), operation's parameters of the tool (cutting deep, cutting speed, acceleration) and geometry in the amount of cutting forces. This studies were carried out with and small tool sliding to avoid the distortion, which can to cause convergence problems during the simulation. In this study, a three-dynamic (3D) lineal simulation model of soil˗ narrow tool interaction has been developed by the finite element method (FEM) to analyze the tillage tool movement across of a silt clay soil block (ferralitic). The extended Drucker˗Prager elastoplastic constitutive relation model was used to modeling, which was realized using the Solid Works design software, 2014 version and its complement Simulation. For the better connection between surfaces, both soil and tillage tool were used contact elements and Coulomb's theorem to achieve good soil elements movement on the tool surface. The model predicted the soil movement, soil failures surfaces, stresses' distribution both soil and tillage tool, as well as the draft forces. The results of the simulation model were compared with models and experimental data of the other authors, and good agreement and trends were obtained.
Pull-through, a salvage technique?
Authors: Vale Martins Rita , Ribeiro João , Alves Paulo , Mira Paulo , Rocha Ricardo
Published: January 2024

The pull-through technique with deferred anastomosis was described in 1961 by Turnbull and Cutait. Although classically used for the treatment of Hirchsprung's disease, its indications have been expanded over time, and it is currently applied for salvage surgery or as a primary option in surgery for benign or malignant pathology of the rectum in patients requiring ultra-low anastomosis. Because it represents a salvage for avoiding a permanent ostomy, it is an important technique in the colorectal surgeon's arsenal. The aim of this article is to review the technique, its indications and the results obtained with it.
Evaluation of the anterolateral ligament of the knee with high resolution ultrasound
Authors: Bettencourt Nunes Luccas Franco , Mendonça José Alexandre , de Souza Tedrus Glória Maria , Mattos Carlos Augusto , Jaqueto Pedro Augusto , Aguilar David Hidaldo
Published: January 2024

Objectives: To determine whether high-resolution ultrasound is an exam that contributes to the identification and assessment of the integrity of the anterolateral ligament of the knee in patients with anterior cruciate ligament injury. Methods: 41 patients, 16 to 55 years old, with primary lesion of the anterior cruciate ligament were evaluated. Demographic data were collected, and a Pivot Shift test was performed. An ultrasound examination was performed, with a high- resolution probe, on both patients' knees, initially, seeking the visualization of the anterolateral ligament in all its extension and later assessing its integrity, ending with an assessment of the lateral meniscus. Results: 100% of the evaluated cases, it was possible to visualize the anterolateral ligament through ultrasound with 46.3% of injuries, with the tibial portion being the most injured. 19 patients (46.3%) had anterolateral ligament injury on the same side as the anterior cruciate ligament injury, while in 19 cases (46.3%) no anterolateral ligament injury was observed on either side. 5 patients had a pivot shift test considered positive with 80% of associated anterolateral ligament injury. 31 patients had lateral meniscus injury by magnetic resonance imaging. Of the 31 patients, 25 were confirmed by ultrasound. Of the 11 patients without lesion of the lateral meniscus by MRI, none had an ultrasound lesion. Adding these two groups, 92.6% of results favorable to ultrasound, (p <0.001). Conclusion: The data obtained suggest that ultrasound contributes to the identification and assessment of the integrity of the knee anterolateral ligament in patients with anterior cruciate ligament injury. Level of Evidence IV.
Comparison between primary total elbow arthroplasty versus open reduction and internal fixation in elderly patients with distal humerus fractures: a prospective study
Authors: Behera Sudarsan , Rana Rajesh , Velagada Sandeep , Doki Sunil Kumar , Amrit G
Published: January 2024

Objective: It aims to assess the efficacy of these treatments, specifically in the presence of osteoporotic bone conditions. The findings of this study offer insights into the suitability of TEA as an alternative treatment option in such cases. Methods: In this study, sixty patients with distal humerus fractures were divided into two groups. The first group received ORIF for fracture fixation, while the second group underwent primary TEA treatment. The study evaluated various outcomes, including elbow range of movement, elbow stability, and comparison of Mayo Elbow Performance Scores (MEPS) between the two groups at three- and twelve-month follow-up periods. Results: In the three- and twelve-month follow-up periods, noticeable differences in elbow motion range were observed between the ORIF and TEA groups. The ORIF group experienced more significant restrictions in daily activities due to stiffness and pain, unlike the TEA group. However, both groups showed improvements in elbow function after one year. Furthermore, there were significant differences in the mean MEPS between the two groups at the three- and twelve-month follow-up period. However, no considerable differences were found between these periods within either group. Conclusion: TEA is emerging as a promising option for elderly patients with comminuted distal humerus fractures, considering the osteoporotic bone condition. The results of this study hold substantial implications for the decision-making process in treatment selection.
Early results of total hip replacement in avascular necrosis of head of femur in patients with sickle cell disease: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Bureggah Abdallah , AlRadwan Hussain , Ramadan Abdallah , Refaat Mostafa , Alkuwaity Khalid
Published: January 2024

Background: Total hip arthroplasty (THA) has become the mainstay of treatment in SCD patients with symptomatic AVN that has progressed to end-stage arthritis. This patient population is often young and active at the time of surgery, potentially predisposing them to a higher risk of implant failure than those undergoing THA for primary osteoarthritis (OA). Methods: This retrospective study included 15 patients (age, 25–45 years; 5 males and 10 females) who underwent THR. The Harris Hip Score (HHS) was used to assess functional outcomes. All patients were followed up at 6-weekly intervals then 6-monthly intervals. Results: The mean follow-up period was 12 to 18 months. The mean preoperative HHSs was 45.22±021. Postoperatively, a subsequent increase in HHS was found, and a significant difference between pre and postoperative pain. Conclusion: THA remains an effective treatment modality for osteonecrosis of the hip in SCD patients. However, these patients are at increased risk of medical and surgical complications. Surgeons should be aware of the unique challenges in this patient population when counseling and managing these patients in the perioperative period.
“Veranos e inviernos” en el Caribe colombiano. Ganadería en las estaciones secas y lluviosas en los valles de los ríos Sinú y San Jorge, primera mitad del siglo XX
Authors: Sibaja Madera Francisco Javier
Published: January 2024

Objetivo: describir y analizar cómo incidieron las épocas secas y lluviosas en la ganadería de los valles de los ríos Sinú y San Jorge durante la primera mitad del siglo XX. Metodología: mediante la correspondencia de los hacendados, este artículo reconstruye e identifica los periodos secos y lluviosos más intensos que se presentaron en la región y sus efectos en el ganado, pastos y trabajos en las haciendas; y examina la regularidad o anormalidad de los veranos e inviernos y las respuestas de los ganaderos para ajustarse y adaptarse a las variaciones de estos ciclos estacionales. Originalidad: aunque la correspondencia ha sido usada en otras investigaciones históricas con enfoques sociales y económicos empresariales, no ha sido interrogada por la historia ambiental y climática ni ha sido aplicada a la ganadería costeña, y aunque efectivamente se ha enfocado en la transformación del bosque seco en potreros, no se ha investigado allí la relación entre ganadería y clima ni la incidencia de las épocas de lluvias y secas en dicha actividad. Conclusiones: aunque los veranos e inviernos tuvieron fuertes repercusiones en la ganadería, no fueron una fuente significativa de calamidades y desastres; al contrario, las condiciones climáticas fueron claves para que la ganadería se instaurara como principal actividad productiva en los valles del Sinú y San Jorge.
Juan Carlos Herrera Correa. “Una carcajada en un velorio”: los inicios de la República Liberal en la caricatura de Ricardo Rendón, 1930-1931. Bogotá: Universidad del Rosario, 2020. 186 páginas.
Authors: Villabona Ardila Juliana
Published: January 2024

El libro Una carcajada en un velorio: los inicios de la República Liberal en la caricatura de Ricardo Rendón, 1930-1931 de Juan Carlos Herrera, recientemente publicado por la Universidad del Rosario como parte de una colección de libros dedicados a analizar la caricatura como fenómeno político y cultural, una deuda de la historiografía colombiana que Herrera señala al inicio de su texto, centra su interés en un periodo específico de la vida de Ricardo Rendón, los últimos años de su vida y su influencia en la coyuntura política de 1930-1931 —caída de la Hegemonía Conservadora e inicio de la llamada República Liberal—, además de intentar explicar las causas de su suicidio.
Design and Control of a Photovoltaic Distribution System Based on Modular Buck-Boost Converters
Authors: Ramírez-Murillo Harrynson , Torres-Pinzón Carlos Andrés , Salazar-Cáceres José Fabián , Vera-Saldaña Valentina , Mojica-Casallas Carlos Javier
Published: January 2024

The main contribution of this research is the design of a series hybrid topology for a photovoltaic distribution system using Buck-Boost converter modules. This design incorporates a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm based on the perturb and observe method, linear PI controllers, and an energy management algorithm. The controllers' design is validated through simulation using PSIM and SISOTOOL/MATLAB. This work aims to achieve active power-sharing in the AC grid through a control loop implemented with a three-phase inverter. The validation of the topology and controller design demonstrates tracking and robustness in four test scenarios for the state variables in microgrids: constant and variable irradiance conditions, auxiliary storage device (ASD) protection and control loops, and power-sharing with the AC grid, while considering the DC system dynamics.
Avances de infraestructura verde urbana para la gestión de agua en América Latina
Authors: Hack Jochen , Ojeda-Revah Lina , Pérez Rubí Maria , Pradilla Gonzalo , Borbor-Cordova Mercy , Burgueño Gabriel , Eleuterio Ana Alice , Rivera Daniela , Vásquez Alexis
Published: January 2024

La urbanización en América Latina ha avanzado con poca planificación, resultando en problemas socioecológicos, como inundaciones y contaminación de recursos hídricos. La infraestructura verde es un concepto reciente para responder a estos problemas. El concepto es atractivo porque propone soluciones multifuncionales y mejorar la conectividad a diferentes escalas espaciales. Sin embargo, su implementación en América Latina se encuentra aún en fase inicial con escasa documentación. Debido a su carácter multifuncional y multiescalar, su exitosa implementación requiere de procesos transformativos en diversos ámbitos. Este estudio analiza avances en estos ámbitos aplicando cinco dimensiones de transformación: entorno facilitador, institucional, gestión e instrumentos, implementación y operación, y monitoreo y evaluación. El análisis de diez ejemplos de promoción e implementación de infraestructura verde en ocho países de Latinoamérica muestra que hay menos avances en la provisión de financiamiento y en el monitoreo/evaluación, mientras que avances en la gestión e instrumentos y en la implementación/operación son frecuentemente reportados. El liderazgo y la voluntad política han sido factores claves para los avances. La caracterización general y la documentación basada en ejemplos de avances en diferentes regiones de América Latina contribuyen a informar y guiar la futura promoción e implementación de infraestructura verde.
Análisis de la dinámica espaciotemporal de humedales tropicales a través de imágenes SAR Sentinel-1: Caso de estudio en Colombia
Authors: Velásquez Franco Pablo Andrés , Pérez González María Eugenia
Published: January 2024

Las imágenes Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) del sensor Sentinel-1 complementan las posibilidades actuales que brindan los sensores remotos de información multiespectral, siendo principalmente útiles en áreas de alta nubosidad. Este estudio presenta la descripción de la dinámica espaciotemporal de un sistema de humedales tropicales denominado Ciénaga Colombia durante el periodo 2014-2021 a través de imágenes del sensor SAR Sentinel-1. Los datos se procesaron en Google Earth Engine (GEE) y se emplearon gráficos de cajas y bigotes para analizar la dispersión multitemporal de la retrodispersión del SAR. La lámina de agua superficial del sistema de humedales se calculó mediante los métodos de Umbrales y el Surface Water Index Extraction Model (SWIM), y se exploró su posible relación con la precipitación media anual y el El Niño Osciliación del Sur (ENOS). Los resultados indican la media del tamaño de la lámina de agua superficial de 109,96 ha en el 2015 y de 334,79 ha en el 2017. Los valores calculados para el 2017 con el SWIM y el método de umbrales distan casi en el doble para el mínimo de retrodispersión —384 ha y 657 ha, respectivamente—, aunque para esa temporalidad hubo ausencia de datos SAR. La consistencia de los resultados obtenidos a través de datos SAR se validó con valores del Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) provenientes de imágenes Sentinel 2-1C, y muestran coherencia en lo calculado. Finalmente, desde este estudio se reconoce la necesidad de profundizar en diferentes análisis para identificar los cambios en el sistema de humedales producto de las intervenciones directas sobre la red de drenaje en el que se encuentra.