bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of parametrically rough control systems with regulators and state observers based on Gramian technologies
Authors:   Ivanovo State Power Engineering University, Anisimov A.A. , Sokolov K.E. ,   Ivanovo State Power Engineering University, Tararykin S.V. ,   Ivanovo State Power Engineering University
Published: April 2024

Automatic control systems based on regulators with state observers are effective means to control linear and linearized objects of a high degree of complexity. One of the key problems in the synthesis of modal systems is the development of parametrically rough (robust) systems that retain their performance, as well as the main quality indicators with possible variations of the parameters of both the control object and the controller itself. The synthesis of a robust system with a state observer is carried out by the modal control method based on the matrix model of the controlled object. To ensure the parametric robustness of the system, the authors have proposed a technique which based on the mathematical apparatus of Gramians of controllability and observability as well as on the similarity transformation of observer matrices. Computer simulation of the system with state controller and observer is carried out by means of the MatLab software. The authors have proposed a method to form an observer state structure that is optimal in the sense of parametric roughness of the system, which is based on the procedure of transforming the similarity of the object model. And the transformation matrix is formed by varying the singular numbers of the controllability and observability gramians. The proposed method allows us to obtain an observer structure with a certain ratio of controllability and observability that ensures the fulfillment of the condition of parametric roughness i.e., the absence of positive feedback in the control device. The results obtained make it possible to clearly demonstrate the high efficiency of using the Gramian method for the synthesis of control systems with state observers with low sensitivity to variations of the controller own parameters.
Mathematical modeling of pyrolysis of rubber waste in horizontal cylindrical reactor
Authors:   Yaroslavl State Technical University, Soloviev M.E. , Markin M.I. ,   Yaroslavl State Technical University
Published: April 2024

Recycling of cushioned rubber products is an important environmental and technical-economic issue. Among the various methods of processing such waste, one of the most effective is the pyrolysis process, since it allows us to obtain fuel and energy, and provides the possibility of secondary use of carbon black and metal. Mathematical modeling of this process is necessary to solve problems of optimization and automated control. Thus, the purpose of this study is to simulate the pyrolysis process in a horizontal cylindrical batch reactor, which is currently becoming increasingly widespread. To mathematically describe the process, a model with distributed parameters is used in the form of a two-dimensional thermal conductivity equation and a system of equations of chemical kinetics of polymer thermal destruction reactions. The problem is solved numerically using the finite element method. As a result of the numerical solution of the equations of the mathematical model, non-stationary distributions of temperature and degree of conversion over the cross section of the reactor with non-uniform filling have been obtained. The authors have studied the kinetics of the reaction of polymer thermal destruction in reactors of different diameters. The results obtained can be used to predict the kinetics of material destruction under given reactor heating conditions, which can be useful when we design reactors and automate pyrolysis process control.
NOMADIC BARBARIANS IN THE ORBIT OF THE ECONOMIC INTERESTS OF SASANIAN IRAN AND BYZANTINE EMPIRE
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, Zhdanovych Olesia
Published: April 2024

The article is devoted to the role of nomads in the long-standing conflict between Sassanid Iran and the Byzantine Empire in the VI century. The purpose of the article is to analyze the participation of ancient Turks and Sogdians in the international politics of that period, as well as their place in the struggle for trade routes, markets and spheres of influence on the regions of transit trade. Menander Protector, describing the exchange of embassies between the Byzantines and the Persians, assigned a significant role in the international political and economic life to the Persians. On the other hand, in fragments of Menander's work, the nomadic factor appears to be one of the most important in the relations between the largest empires in that region. The Turks of the Great Turkic Khanate were the main arbiters between the two big countries. Menander's information about nomads is based on official documents of diplomatic missions, which he used to write his work. At the same time, his subjective view of Byzantine economic and foreign relations with Iran is important to us because Romans did not know about nomadic Turkic-speaking tribes in northern Eurasia. In the international politics of the region played some role also the territories of modern Ukraine, peoples and tribes that lived in our lands, in particular, the Slavs.
SCIENTIFIC AND ORGANIZATIONAL ACTIVITY OF GENERAL-CORNET VSEVOLOD PETRIV (1920-1930S)
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, Sydorenko Andriy
Published: April 2024

The article considers the peculiarities of the scientific and organizational activity of General-Cornet Vsevolod Petriv. The main aspects of his cooperation with higher educational institutions, scientific and military organizations are determined. The specifics of the development of the scientific and educational sphere for the training of officers in the conditions of camp internment are highlighted. The museum-archival activity of Vsevolod Petriv is considered. The purpose of this article is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of scientific and organizational activities of Vsevolod Petriv. The object of research is the figure of General-Cornet Vsevolod Petriv. The subject of research is the scientific and organizational activities of General-Cornet Vsevolod Petriv. The source base of the study are the documents of the Central State Archive of Public Associations of Ukraine and the collection Petrov Vsevolod. Military-Historical Works. Letters and Petrov Vsevolod. Military-Historical Works. Memories. The historiography of the study is represented by the works of V. Sergiychuk, S. Narizhny, O. Sukhobokova, O. Kuzhilna and L. Cherniy. In the process of preparing the article, such research methods as analysis and synthesis of source and historiographical information, historical-comparative and problem-chronological were used. With their help it was possible to comprehensively consider this problem and solve the tasks. According to the results of the research, the following conclusions were obtained: scientific and organizational activity of General-Cornet Vsevolod Petriv consisted of scientific and educational work among internment camps, lecture and teaching work in higher educational institutions of Ukrainian emigration, museum and archival work and cooperation with Ukrainian emigrant military-scientific societies. In particular, Vsevolod Petrov developed the project of the General Staff Academy, organized training courses for staff officers and officers for service in operational headquarters, prepared the publication of the magazine Ukrainian Trumpet, taught a number of subjects on military history, military theory, sociology and physical education in Ukrainian Higher Pedagogical Institute in Prague, the Ukrainian Institute of Social Sciences and the Ukrainian Workers University. He developed a number of conceptual provisions for the activities of the Ukrainian National Museum-Archive, participated in cultural and scientific events and lectures and publishing activities of the Ukrainian Military Scientific Society in Prague, cooperated with the Ukrainian Military Historical Society and the Ukrainian Historical and Philological Society in Prague.
TIME AND SPACE IN URBAN CULTURE IN THE CONTEXT OF THE THEORY OF MODERNIZATION. AN ATTEMPT AT A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, Borysenko Myroslav
Published: April 2024

The author considers the process of modernization of life in the twentieth century in industrial developed countries and Ukraine also. The methodological base of this scientific research is the theory of modernization, which was founded worldwide sociology science in the second half of twentieth century. The theory of modernization considers changes in society as an inevitable, continuous process that has strong direction from the archaic to modernity. The article substantiates the connection between modernity and the radical changes in everyday life that took place in the last century. The author argues that home economics got significant progress in the development of household in the interwar countries of America and Western Europe, which received many features inherent modern time. However, such opportunities ware impossible in the Ukrainian society due to the rule of the totalitarian regime. The author determinates the prioritization of the process of modernization of everyday life, dwelling and household in industrial developed countries.
Community Health Needs Assessment of Plain Populations in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania
Authors: Miller Kirk , Yost Berwood , Thompson Scottie , Voight Stephanie L.
Published: April 2024

We conducted a health needs assessment of three Plain communities in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, from a random sample of 433 households surveyed by mail. Here we compare those findings with a similar survey we conducted in 2014–15 with additional questions on vaccine uptake and the response to COVID-19. Results of the two surveys are quite similar. Plain respondents continue to have little diagnosed asthma, fewer mental health issues, and are more likely to have had prenatal care but otherwise their health is similar to that of other adults in Lancaster County.
The Crime Experiences of the Amish
Authors: Donnermeyer Joseph F.
Published: April 2024

There is little published research in peer-reviewed journals about Amish experiences with crime, with the exception of work by Byers and colleagues (Byers, 2008; Byers & Crider, 2002; Byers et al., 1999). The purpose of this article is to explore the crime experiences of the Amish, based on reports by scribes found under “Community Notes” in The Diary, one of several periodicals devoted to reporting news and events from Amish communities. Two hundred forty narratives of Amish crime experiences from 13 years’ worth of The Diary (January 2010 through December 2022) were collected and organized by crime type. Based on these narratives, there are two important findings. First, crime is not infrequent, with a diversity of crime experiences, ranging from burglary to armed robbery. Second, the most frequently described incidents in these narratives were property crimes, such as burglary/attempted burglary, larceny/attempted larceny, scams/attempted scams, and vandalism. The article concludes with recommendations for future research about crime and the Amish, suggestions for culturally appropriate educational materials for crime prevention in Amish homes and businesses, and suggestions for more effective cooperation between the Amish and the criminal justice system.
Baer, The Light at Evening: A History of the Northwest Fellowship Churches
Authors: Burge Jr. Edsel
Published: April 2024

No abstract available.
Implementing Blockchain for Secure Electronic Medical Certifications: An Analytical Study
Authors:   Department of Information Technology, Faculty of Engineering, Taiz University, Youssef Khalil , Amer Tawhib ,   Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Engineering, Taiz University, Ibrahim Yasmine ,   Department of information system Management, School of trade and Science management, the Civilization University, Sana’a Yemen, Qasem Doaa Abdo Othman ,   Department of Information System Management, Sanaa University, Sana’a Yemen, Can Ozgu ,   Department of Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering Ege University, Turkey, Thabit Fursan ,   Department of Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering Ege University, Turkey
Published: April 2024

The assessment of Electronic Medical Certification (EMC) plays a pivotal role in modern healthcare infrastructures, serving as a comprehensive repository for patients' medical histories. Given the inherent challenges related to security and privacy within electronic medical certification systems, there exists a critical need to address the issues of system incompatibility that hinders data sharing among healthcare providers. This not only raises concerns over potential data breaches but also underscores the diminished control patients have over their own medical information. Blockchain technology, known for its significance in securing confidential corporate data, offers a promising solution to redefine the management of medical records. By leveraging a decentralized, peer-to-peer network, blockchain has the potential to transform the security dynamics and enhance the integrity of healthcare record exchanges. This research introduces a novel, lightweight blockchain framework, utilizing the Flask technology, aimed at securely storing and presenting patient statuses and detailed logs of disease diagnosis transactions. Within this envisioned blockchain architecture, patients are represented as unique assets, with their historical health data forming the individual blocks of the chain. The findings of this study suggest that by adopting blockchain technology, healthcare entities can surmount existing barriers, paving the way for a more effective and patient-focused electronic medical certification system. Such advancements promise to fortify the Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems, ensuring a secure, transparent, and efficient healthcare delivery model.
Customized and Optimized Treatment of Extended-Spectrum-Beta-Lactamase Bacteria for Individual Patients
Authors: Jiang Irene Yicheng , Cao Will
Published: April 2024

This paper discusses the optimization of customized intravenous-drip therapy regimens for individual patients infected with antibiotic-resistant bacteria, namely Extended-Spectrum-Beta-Lactamase (ESBL) bacteria. By utilizing Ordinary Differential Equations (ODE) to model the system’s dynamics, evaluated the efficiencies of the four most typical types of pulse functions, namely Dirac delta, sine, trapezoid, and normal distribution functions, as well as the time required for each treatment to suppress the pathogen population. The results revealed that a trapezoid pulse function for intravenous delivery of antibiotics is most favorable. Subsequently, infection severity was randomized by altering the bacterial and Beta-Lactamase population. The efficiency of each randomized regimen was evaluated using a predetermined score matrix that assessed the dosing length, dosing interval, maximum rate of antibiotic infusion, net consumption of antibiotics, and the total number of required treatments. Radar charts and box plot models were employed to present the findings. It was discovered that for more severely infected patients with a higher initial population and growth rate, it is important to decrease the time interval between subsequent doses and increase the time of maximum infusion rate. Conversely, for mild infections, the time interval between doses should be increased, and the time of maximum infusion rate should be decreased. It should be noted that maximizing the infusion rate does not enhance treatment efficiency. Furthermore, in comparison to the initial infected bacteria population size, the growth rate, and Bla production rate play more important roles in impacting treatment efficacy.
Home-Based Mice Colony Explores the Effect of Light Therapy on the Cognitive Functions of Circadian Rhythm Disruption in Mice
Authors: Dao Robin , Ma Pingchuan
Published: April 2024

The fast and non-invasive modulation of brain activity has shown promising therapeutic potential for treating neurological disorders. Gamma-frequency light therapy has been proven effective in treating neurodegenerative diseases. However, its broader therapeutic potential remains unclear. In this study, light therapy was used to treat cognitive dysfunction induced by circadian rhythm disruption in mouse models. First, a light therapy treatment device was built to produce flickering LED light at a 30 Hz gamma frequency. Second, a home-based mouse colony and an artificial circadian rhythm induction chamber were built to induce circadian rhythm disruption in mice during different patterns of light-dark cycles. Circadian rhythm induction was confirmed by video tracking and analysis. Mouse behavior tasks, including the Morris water maze test, forced swim test, and open field test, tested the spatial learning and memory, depression levels, and stress levels of the mice, respectively. The results showed that circadian rhythm disruption affected the spatial learning and memory of the mice but had negligible effects on depression and stress levels. Light therapy was able to improve the spatial learning and memory dysfunction in a specific group of circadian-disrupted mice. This study demonstrates the feasibility of light therapy as a treatment for circadian rhythm disruption. More efforts are needed to understand the mechanisms underlying the effects of light therapy and feasibility for human use.
Mechanism of Mitochondrial Damage in Cardiac Dysfunction Induced by Sepsis
Authors: Zheng Sihui , Yu Xueting
Published: April 2024

Sepsis is a syndrome with a high fatality rate, which is the dysfunction of multiple organs in the whole body caused by the host’s inflammation response caused by infection. The cardiac insufficiency caused by sepsis is called Septic-Induced Myocardial Dysfunction (SIMD), which is mainly characterized by bilateral systolic and diastolic dysfunction of the heart, which is one of the most serious complications of sepsis. Normal mitochondrial structure and function are essential for maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis. Mitochondrial homeostasis plays a central role in the pathophysiology of SIMD, and its structural changes, oxidative stress, inflammation, endoplasmic reticulum stress and autophagy are directly or indirectly related to the occurrence and development of SIMD, which has a promising future as a targeted therapy for SIMD. Therefore, this paper focuses on the molecular mechanism and signaling pathway of mitochondrial homeostasis in the pathogenesis of SIMD, and provides implications for the search for therapeutic targets and biomarkers of SIMD. In addition, many traditional Chinese medicine components play a protective role in maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis in sepsis, and have the potential to be developed as novel therapeutics for SIMD.
A Novel Discovery: Poly-U in 1961 Matthaei-Nirenberg Experiment Cannot Act as mRNA
Authors: Yang Xingyang
Published: April 2024

This study reports novel discoveries as (i) poly-U described by Matthaei and Nirenberg in 1961 could never satisfy the versatility requirements of mRNA, (ii) the 5' to 3' reading direction of poly-U does not comply to mRNA’s unidirectional reading direction of 5' to 3', (iii) Matthaei and Nirenberg did not and could not experimentally distinguish “messenger poly-U” from “non-messenger poly-U”, (iv) Matthaei-Nirenberg’s poly-U was not a discovery of natural nucleic acid molecule, (v) poly-U is a “one-letter language” instead of “four-letter language” stated in Crick’s “coding problem”, i.e., each triplet segment in poly-U has a math model of “1 × 1 × 1 = 1”, yet that of mRNA is “4 × 4 ×4 = 64”.
Antibiotic Resistance in Escherichia Coli: A Comparative Study of Antibiotic Susceptibility with and without Ampicillin Resistance Gene
Authors: Bettencourt Lili
Published: April 2024

Escherichia coli is a widely studied species of bacteria that has been known to exhibit antibiotic resistance, an up and coming issue of the 21st century. Plasmids, or circular DNA, are one method that such bacteria are able to confer resistance. Through the generation of growth curves and the completion of a disc diffusion assay, this study aims to analyze both growth and resistance characteristics of an E. coli strain containing the pGLO plasmid. These methods proved little difference between the rate of growth for wild type and transformed E. coli (containing the pGLO plasmid). In terms of conferred resistance, however, it is shown that the transformed E. coli results in greater susceptibility against Tetracycline, and diminished susceptibility towards Ampicillin (relative to the wild type E. coli). These findings are as expected and confirm that future studies should focus on the interactions between various antibiotics (so as to decrease interference).
The Clarinet as a Tangible Acoustic Interface
Authors: Travasso Rui
Published: April 2024

This article proposes to support the concept that the clarinet can be transformed and considered as a Tangible Acoustic Interface (TAI) when under the influence of digital media art or digital components. The traditional instrument, developed over centuries by luthier’s handcraft in collaboration with instrumentalists and composers, underwent an evolution triggered by digital means in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. Instrumentalists became the new luthiers and began to explore this digital path by augmenting and actuating their instruments. This exploration brought new properties and directions for its performance and, also, new conceptions regarding the connection between the actors involved – instrumentalist, instrument, computer, microphone, software, and others. By comparing and analysing concepts and definitions related to interfaces and their interaction, this paper discusses the new concept of TAI, which results from an expanded vision of the subject and first-person experience. This concept discusses a point of view where the instrument can also be a communication channel between different domains, connecting the instrumentalist with other realities and giving the possibility to seek new artistic paths.
African Union’s Peace and Security Strategy: A Case Study of UNAMID in Darfur and the Role of Darfurian Culture in Conflict Resolution
Authors: Elamin Mustafa Osman
Published: April 2024

This article evaluates the African Union’s (AU) peace and security strategy by analyzing the United Nations-African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) as a case study. It also explores the potential role of Darfurian culture in resolving conflicts. Qualitative research methods, including document analysis, are used to identify the successes and limitations of UNAMID in promoting peace and security in Darfur. The study finds that while UNAMID has made significant contributions, challenges such as inadequate funding, weak coordination, and insufficient post-conflict resources persist. The article recommends strengthening the AU’s strategy by increasing financial and technical support, improving coordination mechanisms, and implementing more comprehensive post-conflict reconstruction and development approaches. Through enhancing the AU’s strategy, sustainable peace and security can be achieved in the continent.
The Typological Factors Influencing the Selection of Relative Strategies
Authors: Wang Wei
Published: April 2024

This paper explores relative strategies of 62 languages and reinterprets the typological factors that influence the selection of relative strategies. On the whole, relative strategies in 62 languages strictly conform with Noun Phrase Accessibility Hierarchy (NPAH) and Filler-Gap Domain (FGD). Relative strategies are related to word order and language family/region. Influenced by the Primary Predicate Prominence Principle, SVO languages in Indo-European region prefer to use pronoun strategy for relativizing subject and direct object, while non-Indo-European SVO languages prefer to use gap strategy influenced by FGD. Under the influence of the Primary Predicate Prominence Principle and FGD, the gap strategy is preferred for SOV languages. In addition, relative strategies of Portuguese, Spanish, and Arabic depend on the speaker’s intention.
Comparative study of mesh fixation versus without mesh fixation in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair by TAPP approach
Authors: R. Naveenraj , Patel Bhavin , Kavathiya Jaydip , Samdani Shubham
Published: April 2024

Background: An inguinal hernia is a protrusion of abdominal contents through the inguinal canal. Laparoscopic TAPP inguinal hernia repair without mesh fixation is comparitively easy and safer than TAPP with mesh fixation with no increase in recurrence rate. Hence the current study was conducted to analyse complications after laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair (TAPP) with mesh fixation vs without mesh fixation in patients with inguinal hernia. Patients has provided informed consent for publication.
Methods: It was an observational cohort study, comparing the outcome in 60 patients undergoing laparoscopic TAPP for inguinal hernia, where patients were randomly allotted into two groups as 30 with mesh fixation and 30 without mesh fixation over a period of two years October 2020 to September 2022.
Results: In the current study, we observed that recurrence was reported among 3.33% study subjects without mesh fixation. While Recurrence reported among 6.67% study subjects with mesh fixation. However, the difference in the observations was statistically not found to be significant and there is significant reduction in postoperative pain, operation duration and hospital stay duration in laparoscopic TAPP without mesh fixation group.
Conclusions: It was observed that laparoscopic TAPP repair without mesh fixation does not increase recurrence rate but reduces operative duration, hospital stay duration and decreases the incidence of postoperative pain compared to laparoscopic TAPP with mesh fixation.
Living in symbiosis with COVID: two delayed presentations of soft tissue infections in elderly patients with COVID-19 infection
Authors: Gratsianskiy Denis , Kiarie Patrick K. , Baek Inhae , Liguori Tyler , Nikolov Nicole K. , Louis Martine A. , Mandava Neil
Published: April 2024

Retroperitoneal and extensive breast abscesses in elderly patients are associated with a significant burden of comorbidities, insidious symptoms, and signs resulting in delayed diagnosis. We present two elderly COVID-19-positive patients with retroperitoneal and breast abscesses. Both patients underwent multiple procedures and , despite a protracted course, survived each two potentially lethal infections. A 72-year-old man presented to the emergency department (ED) with back pain. Labs showed a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-positive COVID-19 test and leukocytosis. A computed tomography scan of the abdomen and pelvis (CTAP) showed a perirectal abscess spreading into the pelvis and retroperitoneum. The patient underwent an incision and drainage (I and D). Additional imaging found multiple collections with extension into the retroperitoneum. These were drained, and the patient was discharged after repeat imaging showed resolution. A 78-year-old female was admitted with swelling of the right breast. Labs showed a positive PCR COVID-19 test, and chest computed tomography (CT) showed a rim-enhancing collection extending from the right breast into the right pectoralis muscle. The patient was started on antibiotics and underwent an I and D of the right breast. She was discharged on post-operative day (POD) four on antibiotics. She was readmitted 32 days later with a left sided abscess overlying the left pectoralis and was successfully treated conservatively with a course of antibiotics. There are few studies on the formation of abscesses in the breast and retroperitoneum in the setting of COVID-19 infection. Thus, information on the topic can aid physicians in maintaining clinical suspicion of severe abscesses illness in elderly patients presenting with vague clinical symptoms or symptoms concerning soft-tissue infections in the setting of COVID-19 infections
Outside in and all inside approach for repair of meniscal tears: post-operative subjective evaluation: a retrospective study
Authors: Dauderytė Barbora , Lukoševičiūtė Gintarė , Bliznikas Kęstutis
Published: April 2024

Background: Assess clinical outcomes after using outside-in, all-inside or combination of both approaches for meniscal repair.
Methods: 86 patients with diagnosed meniscal tears, operated between January 2017 and January 2019 by one surgeon in Northway Clinic, Vilnius and Vilnius Clinical Hospital were surveyed. The meniscal repair techniques used included all-inside, outside-in, or a combination. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Evaluation Form, with meniscal retear indicating failure. Ethical approval was deemed unnecessary for this project. Descriptive statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics 29.01.
Results: Patients undergoing the outside-in approach scored 89.4±12.5 on the IKDC questionnaire, compared to 88.5±16.6 for all-inside and 82.8±20.3 for both techniques combined (p=0.194). Kaplan–Meier analysis showed a 5.6-year survival rate of 80.9% with the all-inside approach. Subjective knee function assessment indicated scores of 8.50±1.9 for outside-in, 8.49±1.4 for all-inside, and 8.16±1.95 for both techniques. Cox proportional hazards model analysis suggested that older age and higher BMI trended towards reduced reoperation risk (hazard ratio, 0.93 and 0.98; p=0.246 and p=0.832, respectively).
Conclusions: Self-reported outcomes in this study evaluated by IKDC questionnaire and subjective function assessment emphasize that both all-inside, outside-in or combination of the techniques provide similar results. All adverse outcomes defined as meniscal retears were observed using all-inside technique.
Comparison of effectiveness of intraoperative subperiosteal versus periarticular analgesic cocktail injection for post operative analgesia in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Joy Dijo P. , E. Samson Samuel , John P. S.
Published: April 2024

Background: Early postoperative pain management is pivotal in patients undergoing Total knee arthroplasty. The advantage of Local infiltration analgesia is its ability to provide control of pain without interfering with motor strength of the lower extremity, thereby allowing early mobilization of patients. This study compares the effectiveness of local analgesic cocktail injection given through subperiosteal vs. periarticular routes.
Methods: The study included 30 patients admitted for primary total knee arthroplasty. They were grouped into two groups based on different injection sites. Group A included patients who received subperiosteal injection and Group B included patients who received periarticular injection, under spinal anaesthesia. The difference in pain among the two groups, using VAS at 12, 24, 48, and 72 hrs postoperatively, postoperative range of movements, and Functional outcome using IKDC score at the end of 6 months were assessed and compared between the two groups.
Results: The mean VAS scores at 12, 24, 48, and 72 hrs were 0.87±0.35, 1.47±0.52, 1.80±0.41, 1.07±0.46 in subperiosteal group and 2.00±0.53, 2.47±0.52, 2.80±0.56, 1.93±0.59 in periarticular group. The 6 months postoperative IKDC scores were 51.34±0.41 and 51.04±0.61 respectively.
Conclusions: Subperiosteal cocktail injection can significantly reduce the postoperative pain and result in early recovery of range of movements, compared with periarticular cocktail injection in patients undergoing Total knee arthroplasty. But the long-term functional outcomes were comparable among both the groups.
Comparison of surgical times of various total knee replacement techniques and assessment of learning curve of robotic total knee replacement: a retrospective study
Authors: Paravath Sameer Ali , Prasad Amarnath Anand Bhavan , Parambil Nabeel Mohammed Therakka , Gafoor Basheer Abdul , Damsas Lulu , Prince Alwin , Punathil Swetha
Published: April 2024

Background: This study aims to compare the operating times of manual, computer-assisted and robotic- assisted TKA and to calculate the learning curve for image-less robotic-assisted TKA (RATKA).
Methods: This retrospective observational study, conducted at the Centre of Excellence, Bone, Joint and Spine, Meitra Hospital, Kozhikode, Kerala, India, focused on patients aged 60 and above undergoing total                                                                       knee replacement for stage 4 osteoarthritis. The study included 75 consecutive cases of manual, computer- assisted, and robotic-assisted unilateral total knee arthroplasties performed between May 2021 and September 2022 (18 months). Data was collected from the hospital records.
Results: The surgeon transitioned from learning to proficiency phase of RATKA after 14 cases. In the robotic learning phase, the overall operative time was 113.14 minutes (±8.96), significantly longer than the robotic proficiency phase's average of 98.24 minutes (±2.98) and that of CATKA (99.57±10.700 minutes) and manual TKAs (97.01±7.17 minutes). No statistically significant difference was observed in the global operative time between the proficiency phase RATKAs and the CATKA and manual groups (p=0.139).
Conclusions: By optimizing techniques and modifying workflow, one can swiftly overcome the initial learning curve of RATKA and achieve operating times comparable to manual TKA. To enhance efficiency and productivity, the study proposes a revised workflow modifying various rate limiting surgical steps.
Revealing the therapeutic potential of teriparatide: a review
Authors: Srivastava Sushant , Kumar Arvind , Kundnani Vishal , Ajgaonkar Amit
Published: April 2024

Teriparatide is an FDA-approved medication for osteoporosis that presents promising results in treating various musculoskeletal conditions. It helps in improving the bone mineral density and preventing fractures in individuals with osteoporosis. Its effectiveness in treating non-union and delayed union fractures, atypical femoral fractures, and spinal fusion procedures makes it valuable in improving bone healing and reducing complications. Teriparatide also improves bone density and strength in individuals with osteogenesis imperfecta, helps prevent and treat hypocalcaemia post-thyroidectomy, and helps in the management of hypoparathyroidism. In MRONJ, teriparatide improves lesion resolution and reduces bony defects. Furthermore, it potentially prevents bone metastasis in cancer patients without stimulating tumour growth. Nevertheless, teriparatide may cause short-term side effects like nausea and long-term concerns pertaining to the risk of osteosarcoma. Recent European alliance of associations for rheumatology guidelines have highlighted teriparatide's superior effectiveness in achieving bone mineral density thresholds and reducing fracture risks. Further clinical trials are necessary to determine optimal dosages and treatment durations of teriparatide. The off-label use of teriparatide should be considered only under the guidance of a healthcare professional when standard options are unavailable or inadequate.
Sağlık Kurumları İşletmeciliği Öğrencilerinin Bireysel Yenilikçilik Algıları ile Olumlu Gelecek Beklentileri Arasındaki İlişkinin İncelenmesi
Authors: Yüksel Oğuzhan
Published: April 2024

Araştırma, Sağlık Kurumları İşletmeciliği öğrencilerinin bireysel yenilikçilik (inovasyon) algıları ve olumlu gelecek beklentileri arasındaki ilişkiyi belirlemek amacıyla yapılmıştır. Araştırmanın evreni, Isparta Uygulamalı Bilimler Üniversitesi Senirkent Meslek Yüksekokulu’nda Sağlık Kurumları İşletmeciliği programına kayıtlı eğitim-öğretim hayatına aktif devam eden 173 öğrenciden oluşmaktadır. Bu çalışma, Isparta Uygulamalı Bilimler Üniversitesi Etik Kurulu tarafından 02.10.2023 tarih ve 163/01 no’lu karar ile uygun bulunmuştur. Ayrıca Isparta Uygulamalı Bilimler Üniversitesi, Öğrenci İşleri Daire Başkanlığı’ndan anketin Senirkent MYO öğrencilerine uygulanabilmesi için 13.10.2023 tarih ve 58845 sayılı yazı ile bilimsel çalışma izni alınmıştır. Örneklem, tesadüfi örneklem yöntemi ile belirlenmiştir. Veriler; “Kişisel Bilgi Formu”, “Bireysel Yenilikçilik Ölçeği” ve “Olumlu Gelecek Beklentisi Ölçeği” kullanılarak anket uygulanması yoluyla toplanılmıştır. Programa uygun hale getirilen veriler ile SPSS programında frekans-yüzdeleme, aritmetik ortalama, standart sapma, Pearson korelasyon, Independent Samples T-Test, One Way Anova ve çoklu doğrusal regresyon analizlerinden yararlanılmıştır. Araştırmaya katılan öğrencilerin, annelerinin %39,7’sinin ve babalarının %30,9’unun ilkokul mezunu oldukları, %32,4’ünün aylık hane gelirinin 11402 TL’nin altında olduğu anlaşılmıştır. Öğrencilerin bireysel yenilikçilik ölçeği alt boyutlarına ilişkin olarak; değişime direnç düzeylerinin orta seviyede olduğu, fikir önderliği, deneyime açıklık ve risk alma düzeylerinin ise orta seviyenin üzerinde olduğu anlaşılmıştır. Öğrencilerin olumlu gelecek beklentilerinin ise orta seviyenin üzerinde olduğu tespit edilmiştir.
The sharing economy as a new business model
Authors: Niescior Bartosz , Korytnicka Zuzanna
Published: April 2024

Research Objective: The objective of this study is to understand and analyze various business models in the sharing economy. This understanding comes from a thorough investigation of how these models are applied in practice and how they impact various sectors of the economy. The analysis also includes an evaluation of the effectiveness of these models in the context of their business objectives and their impact on the community.
Methodology: The methodology includes a literature review on the sharing economy. As part of this review, various publications and sources discussing the concepts and models of the sharing economy are examined. Additionally, an analysis of existing business models is conducted to understand how they are applied in practice and how they impact various sectors of the economy.
Main Conclusions: The main conclusion is that the sharing economy has many different business models that are unique and innovative. These models, although different, have common features such as the use of digital technologies to create platforms that connect users and providers. Furthermore, these innovative business models contribute to the creation of new forms of value and opportunities for consumers and businesses.
Research Application: The results of this study can be used to better understand and adapt business models in the sharing economy. This knowledge can help companies in creating more effective strategies that utilize these models to create value for customers and increase competitiveness. Moreover, the results can also serve as a basis for further research in this field, which could lead to the discovery of new opportunities and innovations in the sharing economy.
Originality of Research: The originality of the research lies in the detailed analysis and categorization of business models in the sharing economy. This study stands out in that it not only examines existing models but also carries out their detailed categorization, allowing for a better understanding of the diversity and complexity of the sharing economy. This unique method allows for a deeper understanding of how different models operate and how they can be adapted to various business and social contexts.
Improving The Growth and Yield of Pak Choy (Brassica chinensis L.) Using Cacao Pod Husk Biochar
Authors: Suharyatun Siti , Haryanto Agus , Wardhana M. Daffa Wahyu , Triyono Sugeng , Purwadi Ofik Taufik , Wisnu Febryan Kusuma
Published: April 2024

This work aimed to assess the influence of cacao pod husk biochar treatments combined with the urea fertilizer addition on the growth and yield of pak choy (Brassica chinensis L.). The study used pot trials in a completely randomized design with two factors. The first was the addition of biochar from cacao pod husk, which consisted of 4 levels, namely 0, 62, 125, and 187 g/pot. The second factor was the dosage of urea addition with 4 levels, namely 0, 0.46, 0.93, and 1.40 g/pot. Pak choy was planted in triplicate polybags. Plant parameters included plant height, number of leaves, canopy cover area, fresh yield, water consumption, and water productivity. The results exhibited that adding biochar was significant in terms of parameters. Low dose biochar (62 g/pot) increased plant height, number of leaves, and water productivity, whereas high dose (125 to 187 g/pot) negatively affected pak choy growth and yield. The addition of urea is significant, except for pH and number of leaves. A fertilizer dose of up to 1.40 g/pot positively affected plant growth and yield of the pak choy. The most optimal interaction of the two factors occurred at a biochar dose of 62 g/pot and urea dose of 1.40 g/pot, which produced a maximum crop fresh yield of 111.83 g/plant. This research concluded that biochar from pyrolysis of cacao pod husk can be employed as soil amendment during pak choy cultivation but with controlled doses.
Investigation of the Physicochemical Properties and its Correlation during Koji-Moromi Fermentation Stage of Production Soy Sauce Naturally Brewed in Central Java, Indonesia
Authors: Setiani Bhakti Etza , Yunianta  , Zubaidah Elok , Wardani Agustin Krisna
Published: April 2024

Soy sauce, a widely consumed condiment, undergoes intricate physicochemical transformations during its natural fermentation process. This research delved into the analysis of physical and chemical properties in naturally brewed soy sauce, aiming to elucidate the impact of fermentation stages (Koii, earlier moromi, final moromi, soy sauce product) and sample variations on these properties. Parameters such as pH, total acid, total soluble solids, and water activity (aw) were assessed. Additionally, chemical attributes were analyzed, including total nitrogen, crude protein, formol nitrogen, and sodium chloride (NaCl) content. The correlation between physical and chemical properties during the fermentation stages was determined using the principal component analysis (PCA) method. The fermentation process significantly affected soy sauce's physical and chemical properties. Key factors include total dissolved solids, water activity, total acids, salt, total nitrogen, crude protein, and formol nitrogen, which display distinct patterns. These fluctuations were primarily driven by microbial activity and enzymatic hydrolysis, and total nitrogen, crude protein, and formol nitrogen play pivotal roles in characterizing soy sauce quality. Remarkably, total acid content and pH values exhibited significant variations that deviate from expected correlations due to weak acids. Samples C and D were deemed the most suitable out of the five tested, aligning better with quality standards for soy sauce. This study sheds light on the complex physicochemical changes during soy sauce fermentation, emphasizing the impact of raw materials and microbial processes on its properties.
The naval Operation Irini of the European Union: a step backwards of the csdp in the fight against the illegal immigration and search and rescue activities in the Mediterranean
Authors: Espaliú Berdud Carlos
Published: April 2024

Operation Irini is a new EU naval operation, in the framework of CSDP, to address violations of the arms embargo and illicit export of petroleum products in Libya, imposed by the United Nations Security Council. As a second objective, the Operation contributes to the training of Libyan coastguards in their fight against illegal immigration, as well as combating the mafias involved in the smuggling of migrants in the Central Mediterranean. From the outset, the naval operation has had scant resources and, unsurprisingly, its results have been poor in these first three years. In short, this new Operation, in the wake of Sophia’s poor results in the last months of its activity, represents a new setback for the CSDP and for the EU’s ambition to become a relevant actor in contemporary international society. Unfortunately, moreover, allegations of significant violations of migrants’ human rights by Libyan coast guard forces cast a shadow over the EU, which is assisting and training these security forces.
Received: 04  September 2023Accepted:  24 January  2024
Differential Effects of Anthracycline-based Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy on Stromal and Intratumoral FOXP3+ Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes in Invasive Breast Cancer of No Special Type
Authors: Rustamadji Primariadewi , Wiyarta Elvan , Pramono Meike , Maulanisa Sinta Chaira
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) plays a crucial role in the management of invasive breast cancer with no special type (IBC-NST), with the immune system's response to cancer heavily relying on the dynamics between tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and cancer cells. In this study, the differential effects of anthracycline-based NAC on stromal and intratumoral foxhead box P3 (FOXP3+) TILs expressions were specifically examined.METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 32 IBC-NST samples were evaluated for pre- and post-NAC FOXP3+ TIL expression as well as the changes of FOXP3+ TIL expression. Comprehensive data collection regarding subjects' age, tumor size, grade, lymphovascular invasion, regional lymph node metastasis, and receptor status were conducted. Immunohistochemistry was utilized to quantify FOXP3+ TILs. The stromal, intratumoral and total FOXP3+ TILs expression were then analyzed.RESULTS: Significant reductions in FOXP3+ TIL expression post-NAC were observed, with stromal FOXP3+ TILs showing a median decrease of 3.6 units in subjetcs aged ≥50 years (p=0.013) and a median decrease of 13.2 units in subjects with tumors ≥5 cm after NAC (p=0.006). In contrast, intratumoral FOXP3+ TILs remained relatively stable, with minor changes. The total FOXP3+ TIL expression, combining stromal and intratumoral components, was significantly decreased with a median of 13.0 units decreased to 5.3 units (p<0.001).CONCLUSION: This study highlights the significant reduction in stromal FOXP3+ TIL expression after NAC treatment in IBC-NST subjects, in contrast to the relatively stable intratumoral FOXP3+ TILs. Understanding these differences may guide future therapeutic strategies and improve treatment outcomes for IBC-NST.KEYWORDS: biomarkers, chemotherapy, FOXP3, prognostic, response, lymphocyte