bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BEST: a web application for comprehensive biomarker exploration on large-scale data in solid tumors
Authors: Liu Zaoqu , Liu Long , Weng Siyuan , Xu Hui , Xing Zhe , Ren Yuqing , Ge Xiaoyong , Wang Libo , Guo Chunguang , Li Lifeng , Cheng Quan , Luo Peng , Zhang Jian , Han Xinwei
Published: November 2023

Data mining from RNA-seq or microarray data has become an essential part of cancer biomarker exploration. Certain existing web servers are valuable and broadly utilized, but the meta-analysis of multiple datasets is absent. Most web servers only contain tumor samples from the TCGA database with only one cohort for each cancer type, which also means that the analysis results mainly derived from a single cohort are thin and unstable. Indeed, consistent performance across multiple independent cohorts is the foundation for an excellent biomarker. Moreover, the deeper exploration of specific biomarkers on underlying mechanisms, tumor microenvironment, and drug indications are missing in existing tools. Thus, we introduce BEST (Biomarker Exploration for Solid Tumors), a web application for comprehensive biomarker exploration on large-scale data in solid tumors. To ensure the comparability of genes between different sequencing technologies and the legibility of clinical traits, we re-annotated transcriptome data and unified the nomenclature of clinical traits. BEST delivers fast and customizable functions, including clinical association, survival analysis, enrichment analysis, cell infiltration, immunomodulator, immunotherapy, candidate agents, and genomic alteration. Together, our web server provides multiple cleaned-up independent datasets and diverse analysis functionalities, helping unleash the value of current data resources. It is freely available at https://rookieutopia.com/.
The marine sponge genus Dysidea sp: the biological and chemical aspects—a review
Authors: Fathallah Noha , Tamer Ahmed , Ibrahim Reem , kamal Mariam , Kes Mariam El
Published: November 2023

Background

Marine sponges and other marine invertebrates are considered hidden treasures for a variety of secondary metabolites with pharmacognostic and pharmacological activities which have the potential to create future “super drugs.”

The main body of the abstract

Dysidea species is one of the most widely distributed sponge species in the world which is found mainly near the shores of the Red Sea, Australia, Yap State, and the Philippines. Dysidea species are considered a source of bioactive natural metabolites that exhibit outstanding chemical diversity. They revealed polybrominated diphenyl ethers, sesquiterpene hydroquinones, furano-sesquiterpenes, diterpenes, chlorinated diketopiperazines, and Amino acids. They showed a broad spectrum of potent biological activities, such as antimicrobial, antimalarial, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, potent cytostatic, antifungal, and antioxidant activities.

Conclusion

This review presents an overview of the isolated secondary metabolites from Dysidea species, and their recorded biological activities covering the published reports in the last 30 years.
Foundation News: NextGEO initiative kicks off
Authors: Bartel David
Published: November 2023

SEG and the SEG Foundation have created a new initiative called NextGEO to raise funds for the SEG programs that the Foundation supports. Many of the programs that SEG members enjoy (such as the Honorary and Distinguished Lecture series, scholarships, SEG EVOLVE, field camps, travel grants, and Geoscientists without Borders) are funded by donations from SEG members and corporations. The programs provide our members with the opportunity to learn and advance the science of geophysics, interact with other members, and demonstrate the utility of geophysics to society at large.
Treatment Approaches for Platinum-Resistant Ovarian Cancer
Authors: St Laurent Jessica , Liu Joyce F.
Published: November 2023

The Oncology Grand Rounds series is designed to place original reports published in the Journal into clinical context. A case presentation is followed by a description of diagnostic and management challenges, a review of the relevant literature, and a summary of the authors’ suggested management approaches. The goal of this series is to help readers better understand how to apply the results of key studies, including those published in Journal of Clinical Oncology , to patients seen in their own clinical practice.
The regulation of the profession of conservationrestoration in Austria
Authors: Simonič Sabina
Published: November 2023

The activities of conservators and restorers in Austria are legally considered artistic practice and fall within the scope of the liberal professions. In addition, the Austrian Law for the protection of Cultural Heritage mentions the word “restoration” several times, but it does not specify what conservation or restoration is, nor does it specify the qualiÞcation requirements for the implementation of conservation measures. The Berufsverband österreichischer Restauratorinnen und Restauratoren (ÖRV), founded in 1985, is the only nationally and internationally recognized association of qualiÞed restorers in Austria. In a recent statement, the ÖRV has advocated amending the Law accordingly, so that examinations, expert opinions, and conservation advice may only be carried out by persons with a relevant university degree.
Regulation of Conservation-Restoration in Bulgaria
Authors: Belishki Stefan
Published: November 2023

The article presents the regulation of conservation-restoration in Bulgaria. It explores current legislative documents, in particular the Cultural Heritage Act, along with some subordinate normative acts. The legal texts related to conservation-restoration are explained and discussed. The quality assurance issues are also commented on. The current challenges in the profession are reviewed in the context of the local social environment.
Η μουσική στον κινηματογράφο
Authors: Ράτσου Ευθυμία
Published: November 2023

Η παρούσα εργασία αποτελεί το γραπτό μέρος της διδακτορικής μου διατριβής στην οποία πραγματοποιείται η διερεύνηση διαφόρων τάσεων και προσεγγίσεων στη σύνθεση της μουσικής για τον Κινηματογράφο. Το κύριο μέρος της διατριβής αποτελεί ένας φάκελος συνθέσεων μουσικής για πέντε πειραματικές ταινίες μικρού μήκους του Βωβού Κινηματογράφου, και για αποσπάσματα μίας ταινίας μεγάλου μήκους του Ομιλούντος Κινηματογράφου. Πιο συγκεκριμένα έχω συνθέσει ένα κουαρτέτο εγχόρδων, για την ταινία της Maya Deren Meshes of the Afternoon (1943), ένα οκτέτο για την ταινία των Luis Bunuel και Salvador Dali Un Chien Andalou (1929), τρεις συνθέσεις ηλεκτρονικής μουσικής για τα έργα Le retour á la Raison (1923) του Man Ray, Anemic Cinema (1926) του Marcel Duchamp και Filmstudie (1926) του Hans Richter, και μέρη για ορχήστρα για αποσπάσματα της ταινίας Η Λευκή Κορδέλα (2009) του Michael Haneke. Στo θεωρητικό υπόμνημα αρχικά γίνεται εκτενής αναφορά στον ρόλο της μουσικής στο Κινηματογραφικό Έργο μέσα από το πρίσμα διαφόρων θεωριών που έχουν διατυπωθεί μέχρι στιγμής. Στη συνέχεια, μελετώνται τα τυπικά δομικά χαρακτηριστικά της μουσικής σε σχέση με το Κινηματογραφικό Έργο και γίνεται αναφορά, ως μελέτη περίπτωσης, σε αποσπάσματα από συνθέσεις μου που συγκεντρώνουν αυτά τα χαρακτηριστικά. Οι συνθέσεις αυτές έχουν πιο δημοφιλή χαρακτήρα και έχουν πραγματοποιηθεί για κινηματογραφικά έργα με κλασική αφηγηματική δομή. Κατόπιν, γίνεται ανάλυση των μουσικών έργων που παρουσιάζονται στον φάκελο σύνθεσης, της προσέγγισής μου στη σύνθεση και των τεχνικών που χρησιμοποιήθηκαν. Επίσης, αναλύεται η σχέση που αναπτύσσουν τα μουσικά έργα με την κινηματογραφική αφήγηση, η οποία στην περίπτωση των πειραματικών ταινιών που παρουσιάζονται εδώ δεν είναι γραμμική. Εκτός των διαφόρων προσεγγίσεων στη σύνθεση της μουσικής για τα κινηματογραφικά έργα που έχουν επιλεγεί, στόχος της διατριβής είναι η εμβάθυνση στον επιστημονικό διάλογο σε θέματα της Μουσικής του Κινηματογράφου.
Molecular characterization and management of soilborne and leaf pathogens in leafy vegetables
Authors: Τζίρος Γεώργιος
Published: November 2023

Αντικείμενο της παρούσας διδακτορικής διατριβής ήταν η μελέτη της αιτιολογίας των πιο κοινών ασθενειών, εδαφογενών και φυλλώματος, που προσβάλλουν τα φυλλώδη λαχανικά και ιδιαίτερα την καλλιέργεια του μαρουλιού, ενώ παράλληλα μελετήθηκε και η επίδραση διαφορετικών μεθόδων απολύμανσης του εδάφους. Πιο συγκεκριμένα, στο πλαίσιο της διατριβής: α) ταυτοποιήθηκαν, κυρίως με μοριακές μεθόδους, τα παθογόνα αίτια των κυριότερων μυκητολογικών ασθενειών, τόσο εδαφογενών όσο και φυλλώματος, β) πραγματοποιήθηκαν οι κατάλληλες, κατά περίπτωση, δοκιμές παθογένειας, γ) αξιολογήθηκε η επίδραση των διαφορετικών μεθόδων απολύμανσης που εφαρμόσθηκαν στο έδαφος, στον πληθυσμό των σημαντικότερων εδαφογενών παθογόνων, και δ) διερευνήθηκε η επίδραση των συγκεκριμένων μεθόδων στη σύσταση του βακτηριακού μικροβιώματος στο έδαφος.
Comparative Phytochemical Analysis of Kanakasava, Kanakasava Distillate, and Kanakasava Nebulizer Solution Using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS)
Authors: Shailesh V Deshpande , Chojer Rashmi , Vaishali S Deshpande
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Kanakasava is the classical formulation known to have beneficial effects on bronchial asthma. This study deals with the objective to compare the phytochemicals present in Kanakasava, Kanakasava distillate, and Kanakasava nebulizer solution using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and to determine if Kanakasava nebulizer solution can be useful in managing respiratory diseases. Methods: Kanakasava, Kanakasava distillate and Kanakasava nebulizer solution were prepared accordingly and standard GC-MS analysis was performed on the samples. Results: The GC-MS analysis indicated the presence of 6, 13 and 10 important phytochemicals in Kanakasava, Kanakasava distillate and Kanakasava nebulizer solution respectively. Many chemicals acting on the respiratory system were found in all three forms of Kanakasava and some of the chemicals were having similar actions. Conclusion: Despite the fact that the phytochemicals found in the three of them differed due to molecular fragmentation during the whole process, the efficacy of the novel Kanakasava nebulizer solution remained unaffected.
Elegant Explorations of Ionic Liquids in the Expeditious Synthesis of Fe3O4 Nanoparticles
Authors: R. Bhirud Sangita , H. Sarode Chandrakant , R. Gupta Gaurav , Chaudhari Rakesh P. , Chaudhari Ganesh R.
Published: November 2023

Ionic liquids (ILs) are becoming an innovative and attractive synthesis medium for inorganic nano-materials, allowingmore efficient, environmentally benign and sustainable preparation of high quality nano-materials. The present study explores the potentials of imidazolium ionic liquids as a stabilized reaction medium in the synthesis of metal oxide nanoparticles. Furthermore, a detail explanation regarding the methods of modifying surfaces with ILs of varying chain length for the formation of Fe3O4 nanoparticles have been addressed.
Cost-effectiveness of arthroscopic partial meniscectomy versus physical therapy for traumatic meniscal tears in patients aged under 45 years
Authors: van der Graaff Sabine J. A. , Reijman Max , Meuffels Duncan E. , Koopmanschap Marc A.
Published: November 2023

Aims

The aim of this study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of arthroscopic partial meniscectomy versus physical therapy plus optional delayed arthroscopic partial meniscectomy in young patients aged under 45 years with traumatic meniscal tears.

Methods

We conducted a multicentre, open-labelled, randomized controlled trial in patients aged 18 to 45 years, with a recent onset, traumatic, MRI-verified, isolated meniscal tear without knee osteoarthritis. Patients were randomized to arthroscopic partial meniscectomy or standardized physical therapy with an optional delayed arthroscopic partial meniscectomy after three months of follow-up. We performed a cost-utility analysis on the randomization groups to compare both treatments over a 24-month follow-up period. Cost utility was calculated as incremental costs per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained of arthroscopic partial meniscectomy compared to physical therapy. Calculations were performed from a healthcare system perspective and a societal perspective.

Results

A total of 100 patients were included: 49 were randomized to arthroscopic partial meniscectomy and 51 to physical therapy. In the physical therapy group, 21 patients (41%) received delayed arthroscopic partial meniscectomy during follow-up. Over 24 months, patients in the arthroscopic partial meniscectomy group had a mean 0.005 QALYs lower quality of life (95% confidence interval -0.13 to 0.14). The cost-utility ratio was €-160,000/QALY from the healthcare perspective and €-223,372/QALY from the societal perspective, indicating that arthroscopic partial meniscectomy incurs additional costs without any added health benefit.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic partial meniscectomy is arthroscopic partial meniscectomy is unlikely to be cost-effective in treating young patients with isolated traumatic meniscal tears compared to physical therapy as a primary health intervention. Arthroscopic partial meniscectomy leads to a similar quality of life, but higher costs, compared to physical therapy plus optional delayed arthroscopic partial meniscectomy.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(11):1177–1183.
Rotationplasty outcomes assessed by gait analysis following resection of lower extremity bone neoplasms
Authors: Filis Panagiotis , Varvarousis Dimitrios , Ntritsos Georgios , Dimopoulos Dimitrios , Filis Nikolaos , Giannakeas Nikolaos , Korompilias Anastasios , Ploumis Avraam
Published: November 2023

Aims

The standard of surgical treatment for lower limb neoplasms had been characterized by highly interventional techniques, leading to severe kinetic impairment of the patients and incidences of phantom pain. Rotationplasty had arisen as a potent limb salvage treatment option for young cancer patients with lower limb bone tumours, but its impact on the gait through comparative studies still remains unclear several years after the introduction of the procedure. The aim of this study is to assess the effect of rotationplasty on gait parameters measured by gait analysis compared to healthy individuals.

Methods

The MEDLINE, Scopus, and Cochrane databases were systematically searched without time restriction until 10 January 2022 for eligible studies. Gait parameters measured by gait analysis were the outcomes of interest.

Results

Three studies were eligible for analyses. Compared to healthy individuals, rotationplasty significantly decreased gait velocity (-1.45 cm/sec; 95% confidence interval (CI) -1.98 to -0.93; p < 0.001), stride length (-1.20 cm; 95% CI -2.31 to -0.09; p < 0.001), cadence (-0.83 stride/min; 95% (CI -1.29 to -0.36; p < 0.001), and non-significantly increased cycle time (0.54 sec; 95% CI -0.42 to 1.51; p = 0.184).

Conclusion

Rotationplasty is a valid option for the management of lower limb bone tumours in young cancer patients. Larger studies, with high patient accrual, refined surgical techniques, and well planned rehabilitation strategies, are required to further improve the reported outcomes of this procedure.

Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(11):817–824.
NIH/OSA Workshop on In-vivo Optical Imaging
Authors: Guest Speaker
Published: November 2023

This Monday evening discussion will focus on how questions such as "How
can we achieve specificity in optical imaging?" and "How quantitative
should optical imaging be for clinical use?" Panel participants will
represent a cross-section of basic scientists, engineers, and
clinicians.

Invited Speakers: Intralipid or patient, IRB or not to
be, Bruce Tromberg, Univ. of California, USA
Macromolecular-specific imaging and the early detection of
cancer, Robert Bonner, NIH, USA Electro-optical
instrumentation as medical devices—regulatory considerations for
clinical trials and market clearance, Colin Pollard, FDA,
USA
Security-aware 5G RAN slice mapping with tiered isolation in physical-layer secured metro-aggregation elastic optical networks using heuristic-assisted DRL
Authors: Wang Yunwu , Zhu Min , Gu Jiahua , Liu Xiang , Tong Weidong , Hua Bingchang , Lei Mingzheng , Cai Yuancheng , Zhang Jiao
Published: November 2023

The optical transport network (OTN) encryption technology is attractive to solve the physical-layer security in services for the light-path provision process. This paper mainly explores the security-aware 5G radio access network (RAN) slice mapping problem with the tiered isolation (TI) policy, which decides the solution for aggregating service into the physical-layer secured metro-aggregation elastic optical networks (MA-EONs). We first introduce the physical-layer secured OTNs and illustrate their differences from the traditional optical networks. Then, we formulate the 5G RAN slice mapping problem in physical-layer secured MA-EONs as an exact integer linear programming (ILP) model to minimize the average cost (AC), which consists of the number of utilized processing pools (PPs)/general-purpose processors (GPPs)/virtual machines (VMs), and maximum frequency slot index (MFSI) on the light-paths, meanwhile satisfying the given slice’s latency, isolation, and security requirements. After that, to overcome the non-scalability problem of the ILP model, a heuristic-assisted deep reinforcement learning (HA-DRL) algorithm is proposed to obtain a near-optimal solution for large-scale network scenarios, where the classical shortest path algorithm is employed in the DRL to shrink the size of the exploration space and accelerate the convergence process. Finally, we evaluate the proposed ILP model and HA-DRL algorithm through extensive simulations. Simulation results indicate that our proposed HA-DRL method can find approximate solutions to the ILP model in the small-scale network scenario. Furthermore, the HA-DRL method can also achieve higher resource efficiency compared with benchmark heuristic first-fit algorithms in the large-scale network scenario. In comparison to the first-fit algorithm benchmark, the proposed HA-DRL can achieve up to 9.4% AC reduction in large-scale network scenarios.
Multi-derivative method for phase extraction without knowing carrier frequencies in off-axis quantitative phase imaging
Authors: Zhong Zhi , Song Diyao , Liu Lei , Nastasa Viorel , Liu Bin , Shan Mingguang
Published: November 2023

We propose a multi-derivative method to reconstruct the phase of transparent objects in off-axis quantitative phase imaging (QPI). By numerically computing first-, second-, and third-order derivatives of the interferogram, we demonstrate that one can extract the quantitative phase information in a straightforward way, without prior knowledge of the carrier frequencies or Fourier transform. In contrast to existing advanced derivative methods, our approach markedly streamlines the alignment and retrieval processes, all without requiring any special prerequisites. This enhancement seamlessly translates into improved reconstruction quality. Furthermore, when compared to cutting-edge Fourier-division-based methods, our technique distinctly accelerates the phase retrieval speed. We verified our method using white-light diffraction phase microscopy and laser off-axis QPI, and the results indicate that our method can allow a fast, high-quality retrieval with frame rates up to 41.6 fps for one- megapixel interferograms on a regular computer.
Epidemiology of scrub typhus and other rickettsial infections (2018–22) in the hyper-endemic setting of Mizoram, North-East India
Authors: Vanramliana  , Pautu Lalfakzuala , Lalmalsawma Pachuau , Rosangkima Gabriel , Sarma Devojit Kumar , Chinzah Hunropuia , Malvi Yogesh , Kodali Naveen Kumar , Amarthaluri Christiana , Balasubramani Karuppusamy , Balabaskaran Nina Praveen
Published: November 2023

Background

In the past decade, scrub typhus cases have been reported across India, even in regions that had no previous history of the disease. In the North-East Indian state of Mizoram, scrub typhus cases were first recorded only in 2012. However, in the last five years, the state has seen a substantial increase in the scrub typhus and other rickettsial infections. As part of the public health response, the Mizoram Government has integrated screening and line listing of scrub typhus and other rickettsial infections across all its health settings, a first in India. Here we detail the epidemiology of scrub typhus and other rickettsial infections from 2018–2022, systematically recorded across the state of Mizoram.

Methodology/principal findings

The line-listed data positive for scrub typhus and other rickettsial infections identified by rapid immunochromatographic test and/or Weil-Felix test from 2018–22 was used for the analysis. During this period, 22,914 cases of rickettsial infections were recorded, out of which 19,651 were scrub typhus cases. Aizawl is the worst affected, with 10,580 cases (46.17%). The average incidence of rickettsial infections is 3.54 cases per 1000 persons-year, and the case fatality rate is 0.35. Only ∼2% of the reported scrub typhus cases had eschar. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicate patients with eschar (aOR = 2.5, p<0.05), occupational workers [farmers (aOR:3.9), businessmen (aOR:1.8), construction workers (aOR:17.9); p<0.05], and children (≤10 years) (aOR = 5.4, p<0.05) have higher odds of death due to rickettsial infections.

Conclusion

The integration of systematic surveillance and recording of rickettsial diseases across Mizoram has shed important insights into their prevalence, morbidity, and mortality. This study underscores the importance of active surveillance of rickettsial infections across India, as the burden could be substantially higher, and is probably going undetected.
Non-invasive monitoring of neoadjuvant radiation therapy response in soft tissue sarcomas by multiparametric MRI and quantification of circulating tumor DNA—A study protocol
Authors: Runkel Alexander , Braig David , Bogner Balazs , Schmid Adrian , Lausch Ute , Boneberg Anika , Brugger Zacharias , Eisenhardt Anja , Kiefer Jurij , Pauli Thomas , Boerries Melanie , Fuellgraf Hannah , Kurowski Konrad , Bronsert Peter , Scholber Jutta , Grosu Anca-Ligia , Rovedo Philipp , Bamberg Fabian , Eisenhardt Steffen Ulrich , Jung Matthias
Published: November 2023

Background

Wide resection remains the cornerstone of localized soft-tissue sarcomas (STS) treatment. Neoadjuvant radiation therapy (NRT) may decrease the risk of local recurrences; however, its effectiveness for different histological STS subtypes has not been systematically investigated. The proposed prospective study evaluates the NRT response in STS using liquid biopsies and the correlation of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) with histopathology and immunohistochemistry.

Methods

Patients with localized high-grade STS, who qualify for NRT, are included in this study.

Liquid biopsies

Quantification of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in patient blood samples is performed by targeted next-generation sequencing. Soft-tissue sarcoma subtype-specific panel sequencing in combination with patient-specific exome sequencing allows the detection of individual structural variants and point mutations. Circulating free DNA is isolated from peritherapeutically collected patient plasma samples and ctDNA quantified therein. Identification of breakpoints is carried out using FACTERA. Bioinformatic analysis is performed using samtools, picard, fgbio, and the MIRACUM Pipeline.

mpMRI

Combination of conventional MRI sequences with diffusion-weighted imaging, intravoxel-incoherent motion, and dynamic contrast enhancement. Multiparametric MRI is performed before, during, and after NRT. We aim to correlate mpMRI data with the resected specimen’s macroscopical, histological, and immunohistochemical findings.

Results

Preliminary data support the notion that quantification of ctDNA in combination with tumor mass characterization through co-registration of mpMRI and histopathology can predict NRT response of STS.

Clinical relevance

The methods presented in this prospective study are necessary to assess therapy response in heterogeneous tumors and lay the foundation of future patient- and tumor-specific therapy concepts. These methods can be applied to various tumor entities. Thus, the participation and support of a wider group of oncologic surgeons are needed to validate these findings on a larger patient cohort.
Knowledge, attitudes and practices of French university students towards COVID-19 prevention—are health students better?
Authors: Alessandri-Gradt Elodie , Charbonnier Camille , Plantier Jean-Christophe , Marini Hélène , Costa Damien , Gueit Isabelle , Etienne Manuel , Caron François , Frebourg Noëlle , Unal Guillemette , Favennec Loïc , Merle Véronique
Published: November 2023

During the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020, public health measures (PHM) were implemented to prevent the spread of SARS-CoV-2. At university, we wondered whether health students would be more likely to comply with these safety measures against infectious disease transmission compared to other students. Thus, we collected 1 426 university students’ responses to an online anonymous survey to describe their knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of COVID-19 prevention measures and to compare the opinions and practices of health students and science students at the same university of Rouen Normandy (France). A higher proportion of science students (84.6%) compared to health students (73.9%) reported knowledge of the university’s COVID-19 protocol, p<0.001. However, the health students compared to science students reported a higher compliance with PHM at home (91.4% vs 88.0%) and at university (94.1% vs 91.1%). In a multiple regression analysis, after adjustment for age, sex and university department, factors associated with higher compliance with PHM were knowledge of the university’s COVID-19 protocol and a high perceived efficacy of PHM. A SARS-CoV-2 PCR result was not predictive of compliance with PHM. The results of this online survey in French students show a high level of knowledge and practices of COVID-19 prevention Although their performances could still be improved by training, the good results of health students regarding knowledge, attitudes and practices are encouraging as these students could be an added backup force to fight against viral pandemics.
Editorial
Authors: Nair Sreenath
Published: November 2023

The present issue of the Indian Theatre Journal (ITJ) is an attempt to showcase the current research in the field of Indian performing arts to bring together some glimpses of traditional performance scholarship and the ways in which that interacts with contemporary demands. There are two articles on Kerala Kalamandalam, the internationally acclaimed Kerala’s traditional centre for performing arts. The articles feature the origin and development of the institution, the ways in which the centre became the nucleus of traditional performing arts in the region including recent experiments in the traditional performing arts scene in Kerala. Moreover, the article about the Purulia Chhau attempts to raise the argument that the Indigenous performances have not opened to accommodate the ‘woman’s space’ within its practice. The article on performative experience in Kathakali’ asks some valuable questions about the creative nature of the art of acting: what is the nature of the psychophysical process involved in a performance? At what degree and level this complex process has been understood and theorized? Above all, the exceptional interview with Neena Prasad, a prolific young dancer who received the presidential award for the overall contribution to Indian classical dance, is another highlight of the issue.
Looking through Lost Illusions at Austrian European identity and communication theory of identity
Authors: Özalpman Deniz
Published: November 2023

The study explores Austrian European identity through a communication theory of identity (CTI) by using the film Lost Illusions as a stimulus (2021). Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted in the Austrian capital Vienna to elicit female viewers’ perceptions of European identity to contribute to the development of the communal frame of CTI. The topicality of the film triggered some themes around a shared European past, norms, values, materialism and journalism ethics. Within this collective European identity based on ‘unity in diversity’, viewers’ ingroup closer to the left wing was constructed, influenced, validated and their national outgroup as an imaginary right wing was denied in the group membership.
EFFECT OF THREE COMMERCIAL FISH FEEDS ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF AFRICAN CAT FISH (CLARIAS GARIEPINUS)
Authors: Tyohemba Stephen , Hindi Nater
Published: November 2023

The study was aimed at investigating the effects of different commercial fish feeds on the growth performance
of African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) fingerlings. The experimental fish were collected from Jos, Plateau State and transported early in the morning to Fishery laboratory of Biological Sciences Federal University Wukari, Taraba State in a 25 litre Jeri-can with its upper part close to the handle perforated for oxygen support. Acclimatization was one week and were randomly allocated in to four treatments of 8 fish per bowl and two (2) replicates per treatment totaling 96 fingerlings. The treatments were based on four commercial feeds. Feeding was trice and readings of the parameters were carried out after every four days. The results indicated that T2 had the highest weight gained (8.24g), increase in standard length (3.92cm), total length increase (4.08cm) while highest survival rate was from T4 (100) and were significantly (p<0.05) different from each other.
Taxonomic revision of Hypochaeris (Compositae: Cichorieae) in Uruguay
Authors: Mailhos Ary , Bonifacino J. Mauricio , Marchesi Eduardo
Published: November 2023

The taxonomic revision of Hypochaeris L. (Compositae: Cichorieae) for Uruguay is presented. Specimens from the main herbaria of the country were reviewed, field trips were carried out to study the species “in situ” throughout the country, and all reference publications and original material for each species were reviewed. A list of all species present in Uruguay is included together with their respective synonyms, expanded descriptions, distribution maps, habitat and phenological data, taxonomic and nomenclatural observations, as well plates with images and illustrations highlighting the most relevant morphological characters of each. Additionally, dichotomous and virtual keys are provided for the identification of the sections, series and species of the genus in Uruguay. The genus Hypochaeris in Uruguay comprises 11 species, two exotic (Hypochaeris sect. Hypochaeris), and nine native to the territory (Hypochaeris sect. Phanoderis), two of which are considered priorities for conservation in Uruguay. The name H. rosengurttii is reinstated as a species and the species H. pampasica is recorded for the first time in the country, while H. lutea and H. neopinnatifida are excluded. The taxonomic complexities surrounding the name H. microcephala are discussed, as well as the presence of hybrid taxa within the genus and their taxonomic implications.
Numerical and experimental study of the baffle-based split and recombine chamber (B-SARC) micromixers
Authors: Pawar Sanjay A. , Chouksey Vimal Kumar
Published: November 2023

Microfluidic technology has garnered growing interest in diverse domains. The efficacy and precision of microfluidic devices are significantly influenced by micromixing processes. Micromixers, comprising microchannels designed to blend fluids within a confined space and limited flow pathway, constitute indispensable components of microfluidic systems. Among these components, the micromixer stands out as a critical element, tasked with achieving maximal mixing efficiency while imposing minimal pressure drop. This paper focusses on the numerical and experimental study the baffle-based split and recombine chamber (B-SARC) micromixers. The models of a curved wavy micromixer (without baffle) and the baffle-based split and recombine chamber (B-SARC) micromixers with three baffles such as square, triangular and teardrop shaped baffles been developed using COMSOL Multiphysics software. The mixing performance analysis has been carried out by studying the mixing index and pressure drop. The influence of baffle shapes i.e. square, triangular and teardrop shaped baffles of aspect ratio 1, 1.5 and 2 on mixing performance analysis has been investigated numerically, for widespread assortment of Reynolds numbers (Re) lies between 0.1 and 90. The polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) baffle-based split and recombine chamber (B-SARC) micromixers have been fabricated. Further, the experimental analysis has been carried out. The experimental analysis for pressure drop as well as mixing index has been performed. A good agreement has been observed between experimental and computational results which leads to validation of the computational results. The results revel the role of diffusion at lower Reynolds numbers and the production of derivative flows owing to advection at higher Reynolds numbers within the considered range of Re.
Assessment of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) seed quality accessed through different seed sources in northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Yitayew Yekoye Abebaw , Sisay Dawit Tsegaye , Ayalew Dereje
Published: November 2023

Farmers are accessing seeds from different sources with different quality standards. Studies on the assessment of seed systems (sources) in relation to seed quality are scarce. This study was carried out to assess the different seed qualities (physical purity, physiological quality, and seed health) of bread wheat seed accessed through the existing seed sources (formal and informal seed sources) in Baso Liben district of the Amhara region, northwest Ethiopia. In addition, this study assessed the experience of farmers in seed production and management. Data were collected from 108 respondents using a semi-structured questionnaire and from farmers and local experts using focus group discussions. Seed samples were collected from 58 farmers (30 farmers who sourced seed from the informal system and 28 from the formal system) for laboratory testing. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and t-test (pairwise comparison) using SPSS v23.0. Results showed that about 32.4% of the respondents have experience in quality bread wheat seed production under contractual seed production arrangements with public seed enterprises. Results also revealed significant differences between formal and informal seed sources for various seed quality parameters. Seeds accessed from the formal sources have better physical purity, physiological quality, and 1,000 seed weight than seeds accessed from informal sources. Seed samples collected from the informal source were highly infected with Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Chaetomium spp., and Fusarium spp., and seeds from the formal seed source were infected with Alternata spp. and Penicillium spp. Seed quality is a major concern for the seeds accessed from both formal and informal sources. Therefore, the seed quality control mechanisms of various stakeholders, including national and regional seed regulatory bodies, government organizations, research institutes, and seed producers/companies, should be given much attention at each stage of the seed value chain.
An Empirical Investigation on the Determinants of International Migration
Authors: Suppa Domenico , D’Acunto Salvatore , Schettino Francesco
Published: November 2023

Are differences in per capita income between countries really the main cause of migratory flows? Mainstream economic thinking would give an affirmative answer. In the light of the heterodox literature, in this article, the authors critically evaluate this view and then they conduct an empirical test (applying panel and dynamic panel models) on data relating to the stocks of migrants on 232 countries from 1990 to 2019, trying to explain migration trends based on social-political, cultural, demographic and economic variables (obtained by integrating 4 official datasets). The results reveal a non-unique influence of differences in per capita income on migratory flows: up to a certain threshold (around $27,000) migration appears to be directly related to per capita GDP of migrants’ country of origin. Furthermore, the pre-existing stock of migrants in the country of destination takes on an important role, in line with the findings of the literature on migratory chains. These empirical findings could contribute to improve migration policies.
Clinical investigations to evaluate high-risk orthopaedic devices: a systematic review of the peer-reviewed medical literature
Authors: Lübbeke Anne , Combescure Christophe , Barea Christophe , Gonzalez Amanda Inez , Tucker Keith , Kjærsgaard-Andersen Per , Melvin Tom , Fraser Alan G , Nelissen Rob , Smith James A
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The objective of this systematic review was to give an overview of clinical investigations regarding hip and knee arthroplasty implants published in peer-reviewed scientific medical journals before entry into force of the EU Medical Device Regulation in May 2021.

Methods

We systematically reviewed the medical literature for a random selection of hip and knee implants to identify all peer-reviewed clinical investigations published within 10 years before and up to 20 years after regulatory approval. We report study characteristics, methodologies, outcomes, measures to prevent bias, and timing of clinical investigations of 30 current implants. The review process was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

Results

We identified 2912 publications and finally included 151 papers published between 1995 and 2021 (63 on hip stems, 34 on hip cups, and 54 on knee systems). We identified no clinical studies published before Conformité Européene (CE)-marking for any selected device, and no studies even up to 20 years after CE-marking in one-quarter of devices. There were very few randomized controlled trials, and registry-based studies generally had larger sample sizes and better methodology.

Conclusion

The peer-reviewed literature alone is insufficient as a source of clinical investigations of these high-risk devices intended for life-long use. A more systematic, efficient, and faster way to evaluate safety and performance is necessary. Using a phased introduction approach, nesting comparative studies of observational and experimental design in existing registries, increasing the use of benefit measures, and accelerating surrogate outcomes research will help to minimize risks and maximize benefits.
Types of Marketing Collateral Your Practice Needs for 2023
Authors: Duncan Zoey
Published: November 2023

The right mix of marketing materials for your practice depends on who your patients are and what your business growth goals are. Your 2023 marketing plan can and should include a combination of different marketing collateral to bring your goals to fruition in the short and long-term.
Integrated management practices against an emerging Bakanae disease of rice under the hot-humid climate of Indo-Gangetic plains of India
Authors: Bashyal Bishnu Maya , Gupta Ashish Kumar , Singh Dhiraj , Singh Dinesh , Raman Rohan , Yadav Gaurav Kumar , Gopalakrishnan S. , Aggarwal Rashmi
Published: November 2023

Bakanae disease caused by Fusarium fujikuroi is emerging in India. In this work, fungicides and biocontrol agents were evaluated as seed, seedling treatment, and foliar spray(s) against bakanae disease in rice under field conditions. Carbendazim (50% WP) was found to be the most effective fungicide for seed and seedling root dip treatments. Soil drenching with 0.25% carbendazim (50% WP) 5 days before transplanting of seedlings was effective for large scale treatments. Foliar spray of 0.1% tebuconazole 50%+ trifloxystrobin 25% w/w (75 WG) significantly reduced the percentage of infected seeds (7.17%) compared with the control (32.50%). The minimum disease incidence (31%) was observed when seeds were treated with Talaromyces flavus. Individual treatments were integrated in the form of six management modules and evaluated under the field conditions of New Delhi (India) and Pusa Bihar (India) with the susceptible cultivars ‘Pusa Basmati 1121’ and ‘Pusa 1176’. Bakanae disease incidence was lower in the modules tested compared with the inoculated control or the individual treatment. The most favorable results at two locations achieved the lowest disease incidence of 7% and 2.41%.
International Intellectual Emigration and Innovative Development of The Country: Modeling of Relationships
Authors: OLIINYK OLENA
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study is to assess and model the relationship between intellectual emigration and innovative development of the country. The relevance of the research subject is confirmed by sociological data, according to which there are currently more than 5 million Ukrainians in Europe. Moreover, since the beginning of the full-scale war in Ukraine, mainly highly qualified and highly educated Ukrainians emigrated. The scientific novelty consists in modeling the relationship between the scale of intellectual emigration and individual components of the innovative development of the country. In the research process, the following scientific methods have been used: analysis and synthesis (when analyzing the latest research and scientific publications in the field of intellectual emigration), structural and dynamic analysis (to characterize the tendency of intellectual emigration from Ukraine), correlation analysis and economic-mathematical modeling (to evaluate relationships between intellectual emigration and innovative development of the country). To assess the level of intellectual emigration from Ukraine, the E3: Human Flight and Brain Drain Indicator in the Fragile States Index (hereinafter — the E3 indicator), which is used in the calculations of the State Fragility Index, is utilized. The analysis of the dynamics of the values of the E3 indicator for Ukraine demonstrates its steady growth over the past five years. Therefore, the values of the intellectual emigration indicator make it possible to position Ukraine as a donor country, i.e. one being a donor of intellectual migrants for other countries. The obtained values of Pearson’s pairwise correlation coefficients demonstrate a close inverse relationship between intellectual emigration and innovative development of the country. The negative impact of the departure of highly qualified and highly educated persons abroad for employment on the innovative capacity of the country of origin has been proven. In order to detail the relationship between intellectual emigration and the innovative development of the country, an economic-mathematical model has been developed, which proves that as the values of the sub-indices «Human capital and research» and «Business sophistication» in the Global Innovation Index decrease, the value of the E3 indicator increases.
Дослідницькі передумови успішності соціального експерименту Д. А. Столипіна
Authors: Приймак Олег , Приймак Юлія
Published: November 2023

Актуальність публікації полягає у відповідності її тенденціям розвитку сучасної історичної науки, серед яких виведенню на перший план непересічних, забутих постатей належить важливе місце. Однією з таких можна вважати південноукраїнського поміщика, земського і громадського діяча, соціолога-аматора, учня Огюста Конта Д. А. Столипіна (1818-1893). Свої ідеї щодо можливості вирішення аграрного питання засобами тогочасної соціологічної науки він намагався підкріпити результатами соціального експерименту, що був проведений протягом 1874-93 рр. в с. Мордвинівці.

Мета публікації полягає у всебічній характеристиці дослідницьких передумов соціального експерименту Д. А. Столипіна.

Результати. Окреслено, що метою експерименту виступало доведення ідеї про переваги хутірської форми господарювання над общинною. Динаміка його визначалася темпом створення на поміщицьких землях хуторів, право оренди з подальшим викупом на які отримували місцеві селяни. Визначено, що успішність досліду Д. А. Столипіна залежала від двох груп передумов – господарських та дослідницьких. В статті сконцентровано увагу на всебічному висвітленні комплексу останніх. Підкреслено, що аналіз їх є невід’ємною складовою розкриття теми громадської та науково-пошукової діяльності досліджуваної історичної постаті, а результати його дозволять розкрити ще одну сторінку історії Півдня України.

Висновки. Доведено, що сутність дослідницьких передумов успішності соціального експерименту в с. Мордвинівці полягала у накопиченні Д. А. Столипіним на попередньому етапі життя необхідних теоретичних знань, фінансового та соціального капіталу, бажання виділити під дослід необхідної земельної ділянки. Виявлено, що у Д. А. Столипіна були попередники, невдалий досвід яких став причиною пошуку власної синтезної моделі ділянкового господарства.
Створення та організація енциклопедій в Азербайджані
Authors: Бехбуд Ельмаддін
Published: November 2023

У сучасний час у світі, як і в нашій країні, систематичне й послідовне підвищення загальнокультурного та інтелектуального рівня людини, особливо широкої читацької аудиторії, інформаційне забезпечення зумовлюють розвиток і використання енциклопедичних видань. необхідність. Демократична Конституція Азербайджанської Республіки, прийнята 12 листопада 1995 року, створила правову основу для функціонування всіх сфер нашого суспільства та соціальних інститутів на основі демократичних принципів. У цьому найвищому державному документі широко та всебічно розкривається роль духовної та культурної спадщини, культури в цілому в розвитку суспільства, права та обов’язки людей на використання культурних надбань, у тому числі доступ до інформації: «Азербайджанська держава підтримує розвиток культури, освіти, охорони здоров'я, науки, мистецтва, охороняє природу країни, історичну, матеріальну і духовну спадщину народу» (Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan, 2004).

Питання класифікації, структури та оформлення енциклопедій вважаються найважливішими науковими проблемами підготовки енциклопедичних видань. Особливості та принципи підготовки енциклопедичних видань принципово відрізняються від усіх інших видань. Вивчення особливостей підготовки, видання та розвитку енциклопедій показує, що більшість перших великих енциклопедій, складених у більшості країн світу, особливо в розвинутих країнах, таких як Рим, Греція, Китай, Індія та інші країни Європи, мають польовий характер. Тому, крім використання світового досвіду в галузі підготовки та складання енциклопедій, у тому числі польових енциклопедій в Азербайджані, особливу увагу слід приділити особливостям, враховуючи розвиток науки і різноманітність читацьких груп в країні (Behbud, 2020).