bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brackish Possibilities: (Re)Thinking Caribbean Feminist Ecologies
Authors: Baldwin Andrea N.
Published: August 2024

Abstract: In this article, I engage with the scholarship and praxis of Caribbean feminists and post-colonial scholars, using the term brackish (the place where salt and freshwater meet) as a metaphor, to (re)think Black Caribbean feminisms as ecologies that produce aliveness despite harsh regional conditions. I argue that over many decades, Caribbean feminists have built and sustained vibrant ecologies of thought and practice to address the ways in which we are all similarly and disparately impacted by social, political, economic, environmental, and other conditions within the region and by each other, and have adopted ethical ways to coexist. I posit that engaging with Caribbean feminist ecologies helps us to think about all the ways in which we are connected in this environment, whether literally or metaphorically, and how for Black, and specifically Black Caribbean people, our physical environment, and our relationships with living nonhuman or other-thanhuman beings can tell us much about what it means to create and sustain life generous and interspecies.
Challenging Feminist Stereotypes: Nawal El Saadawi’s Creation of Transnational Solidarity at the United Nations Mid-Decade Conference
Authors: Frazier Jessica M.
Published: August 2024

Abstract: Nawal El Saadawi, an advocate for women’s rights in the Arab World, quickly gained international attention at the United Nations’ 1980 Second World Conference on Women in Copenhagen thanks to her tackling of taboo topics, such as women’s lives in Palestine. Arguing that the conflict with Israel influenced women’s rights in the region and that therefore the Israeli-Palestinian conflict deserved attention at the conference, El Saadawi found herself at the center of a larger debate about what counted as “women’s issues” and what were “political matters.” Spotlighting a particular moment when feminists dug in and grappled with ideas of how to work in solidarity with one another across geopolitical borders, this article provides a window into conversations where feminists challenged assumptions about what “women’s issues” were, who should solve them, and what empowered women. Through the story of El Saadawi’s participation in these exchanges, this article reveals a major shift that took place in transnational feminist circles when women’s issues were deemed inherently political.
“Fed Up”: A Clerical Workers’ Manifesto Sparks a Comparable-Worth Campaign at the University of California at Berkeley, 1970–1974
Authors: Pierce Jennifer L.
Published: August 2024

Abstract: In a union campaign that began in 1970 and ended in 1974, the University of California at Berkeley’s American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 1695’s secretaries published a clerical workers’ manifesto, participated in writing a formal affirmative action report with the librarian’s union, and filed a mass grievance against sex discrimination signed by three hundred clerical workers. Significantly, they rallied against sex discrimination with the slogan “equal pay for equivalent work.” Their campaign not only preceded the first comparable-worth campaign in 1978 in San Jose, California, but was linked directly to it through Local 1695 activists and their activism. This article complicates the origin story for the late-twentieth-century comparable-worth movement and highlights Local 1695’s partnership with librarians in crafting what historian Katherine Turk has called an “expanded interpretation of sex equality law.”
Lightweight structure and unequal length flexible support design of a 1.3×1.2  m rectangular, horizontally supported mirror
Authors: Jiang Ping , Wang Xiaoyu , Wang Kejun , Yang Xun , Li Xiaobo
Published: August 2024

A lightweight rectangular mirror designed for a space telescope features a lightweight structure and an innovative unequal length flexible support design. This design incorporates a three-point back support structure, which maintains the surface accuracy of the mirror assembly in a horizontal optical testing layout. The topology optimization design method is applied for the lightweight design of a SiC mirror. According to the principle that optimal gravity surface accuracy of the mirror is achieved when the pivot center of the flexible support coincides with the neutral plane of the mirror, an unequal length flexible support scheme is proposed. Furthermore, a “neck-shrinking” flexible support structure is designed to enhance the comprehensive surface quality of the mirror assembly, achieving better than λ/140 (RMS = 4.5 nm, λ=632.8nm). Following the completion of mirror polishing, an optical test system is established. The test results confirm that the surface shape accuracy satisfies the requirements of the design index. In addition, the mechanical design has been corroborated through dynamic testing.
Temperature-dependent Mn2+ emission in codoped CsPb2 (BrCl)5 perovskite nanocrystals
Authors: Shen Xuri , Kong Jinfang , Wang Fengchao , Zhang Canyun , Li Lan , Chen Jin , Yang Jing , Sun Yu , Dou Yunchen
Published: August 2024

We prepared codoped CsPb2(BrCl)5 nanocrystal (NC) films by varying the Cu/Mn molar ratio using a facile two-step solution method. The Mn2+ emission peak is studied in the temperature range of 80–300 K. Strong electron–optical-phonon coupling causes an anomalous blueshift and linewidth broadening of the Mn2+ emission peak with increasing temperature. The average optical-phonon energy is approximately 50 meV. The activation energy reaches 79.32 meV, indicating that the introduction of Cu2+ in Mn-doped CsPb2(BrCl)5 NCs greatly enhances the energy transfer (ET) from the perovskite NC host to Mn2+, increasing the Mn2+ emission intensity. A clear understanding of the optical mechanism of Mn2+ emission is of great significance for the widespread application of codoped CsPb2(BrCl)5 NCs in optoelectronic devices.
Spontaneous parametric downconversion photon pair generation in small footprint X-cut periodically poled lithium niobate micro-resonator
Authors: Hwang Hyeon , Noh Woojin , Nurrahman Mohamad Reza , Kim Guhwan , Moon Kiwon , Ju Jung Jin , Lee Hansuek , Seo Min-Kyo
Published: August 2024

Spontaneous parametric downconversion (SPDC) has been crucial for producing non-classical light, such as correlated photon pairs and squeezed states, essential for optical quantum technologies. Recently, thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN)-based devices have enabled high-performance SPDC in on-chip integrated photonic platforms. Here, we developed an X-cut periodically poled lithium niobate (PPLN) racetrack micro-resonator with a compact footprint and demonstrated bright SPDC photon pair generation characterized by distinct resonances and high extraction efficiency. We separately assessed the internal and loaded photon pair generation rates, measuring them at 4.525 MHz/µW and 62.73 kHz/µW, respectively. Our platform is integrated with maturing electro-/thermo-optic TFLN circuit elements and has meaningful potential for advancing active quantum photonic applications.
Research on optical performance of Ln2O2S:Er3+/Yb3+ (Ln = La/Gd/Y) phosphors based on different phonon energies
Authors: Wang Xuejiao , Jiang Tianzhi , Huang Lishuo , Ye Renguang , Wang Juan , Hua Youjie , Zhao Jingtao , Bai Gongxun , Zhao Shilong , Zhang Junjie , Xu Shiqing
Published: August 2024

It is crucial to explore the intrinsic mechanisms that influence thermometric sensitivity. This study investigates the optical performance of materials with the same crystal structure but different phonon energies. Ln2O2S:Er3+/Yb3+ (Ln = La/Gd/Y) phosphors with similar morphology and particle sizes were prepared to systematically study the influence of different phonon energy matrices on optical properties. The intrinsic mechanism was elucidated through the matching degree between the energy gap and phonon energy, Judd–Ofelt (J–O) theory, and quantum dielectric theory. It was ultimately concluded that the combination of high phonon energy with a large Ω2 and a small Ω6 is beneficial for enhancing the sensitivity of temperature sensing materials.
Corrected theory for transmitted Goos–Hänchen and Imbert–Fedorov shifts
Authors: Chen Ze , Zhu Yifei , Zhang Xiaoguang , Zhang Hu , Zhen Weiming
Published: August 2024

We analyze the role of the energy flow coefficient in beam shifts and develop the theory of the angle spectrum method to calculate the beam shifts of polarized beam reflection and transmission. By applying the self-consistency between the law of conservation of momentum and the angular Goos–Hänchen (GH) shift, we prove the necessity of the correcting energy flow coefficient of the transmitted light fields. For the air–glass interface, we find that the influence of the energy flow coefficient on the angular GH shift is very pronounced in the case of close grazing.
Enhanced high-harmonic generation in a polarization-insensitive all-dielectric metasurface exploiting dual-Fano resonance
Authors: Khakpour Fatemeh , Nozhat Najmeh
Published: August 2024

Nonlinear optics demands efficacious techniques for nonlinear properties engineering. Metasurfaces, as a flat technology with easy fabrication in various arrangements and without the need for phase-matching conditions, are suitable platforms for nonlinear optics. This study proposes a silicon metasurface with special geometry that provides high conversion efficiency by exploiting Fano resonances and the excitation of magnetic and toroidal dipoles. The results indicate the high efficiencies of third harmonic generation of 5.17×10−3 W−2 and fifth harmonic generation of 7.92×10−9 W−4 under 1 GW/cm2 pump intensity in the near-infrared regime. More specifically, linear and nonlinear optical responses of the structure are completely polarization-independent.
Phase-sensitive pump-probe measurement of the complex nonlinear susceptibility of silicon across the direct band edge
Authors: Cruz C. D. , Stephenson J. C. , Wahlstrand J. K.
Published: August 2024

The nonlinear response of materials, an increasingly important aspect of light-matter interaction, can be challenging to measure in highly absorbing materials. Here, we introduce an interferometric technique that enables a direct measurement of the nonlinear complex permittivity in a bulk medium from reflectivity alone. We demonstrate the utility of pump-probe supercontinuum (SC) spectral interferometry in reflection by measuring time-dependent variations in the complex dielectric function (n, k) over the visible wavelength range in bulk silicon. Transient phase shifts in the reflected SC due to a near infrared pump pulse allow us to track modifications to k, whereas changes in n are derived from transient fluctuations in the reflected SC probe amplitude. The ultrafast response is attributed to effective two-photon absorption (β) and Kerr (n2) coefficients. We observe the onset of strong two-photon absorption as the two-photon energy is tuned through the direct band edge of silicon (E1=3.4eV). This technique allows straightforward spectroscopic measurements of the χ(3) nonlinear response at the surface of absorbing materials.
Climatic predictors of prominent honey bee (Apis mellifera) disease agents: Varroa destructor, Melissococcus plutonius, and Vairimorpha spp.
Authors: McAfee Alison , Alavi-Shoushtari Niloofar , Tran Lan , Labuschagne Renata , Cunningham Morgan , Tsvetkov Nadejda , Common Julia , Higo Heather , Pernal Stephen F. , Giovenazzo Pierre , Hoover Shelley E. , Guzman-Novoa Ernesto , Currie Robert W. , Veiga Patricia Wolf , French Sarah K. , Conflitti Ida M. , Pepinelli Mateus , Borges Daniel , Walsh Elizabeth M. , Bishop Christine A. , Zayed Amro , Duffe Jason , Foster Leonard J. , Guarna M. Marta
Published: August 2024

Improving our understanding of how climate influences honey bee parasites and pathogens is critical as weather patterns continue to shift under climate change. While the prevalence of diseases vary according to regional and seasonal patterns, the influence of specific climatic predictors has rarely been formally assessed. To address this gap, we analyzed how occurrence and intensity of three prominent honey bee disease agents (Varroa destructor ― hereon Varroa ― Melissococcus plutonius, and Vairimorpha spp.) varied according to regional, temporal, and climatic factors in honey bee colonies across five Canadian provinces that were sampled at three time points. We found strong regional effects for all disease agents, with consistently high Varroa intensity and infestation probabilities and high M. plutonius infection probabilities in British Columbia, and year-dependent regional patterns of Vairimorpha spp. spore counts. Increasing wind speed and precipitation were linked to lower Varroa infestation probabilities, whereas warmer temperatures were linked to higher infestation probabilities. Analysis of an independent dataset shows that these trends for Varroa are consistent within a similar date range, but temperature is the strongest climatic predictor of season-long patterns. Vairimorpha spp. intensity decreased over the course of the summer, with the lowest spore counts found at later dates when temperatures were warm. Vairimorpha spp. intensity increased with wind speed and precipitation, consistent with inclement weather limiting defecation flights. Probability of M. plutonius infection generally increased across the spring and summer, and was also positively associated with inclement weather. These data contribute to building a larger dataset of honey bee disease agent occurrence that is needed in order to predict how epidemiology may change in our future climate.
Distribution and genetic characterization of hantaviruses in bats and rodents from Yunnan
Authors: Hou Yutong , Li Qian , Huang Xingyu , Wang Jiale , Hou Junjie , Sun Yunze , Wu Xinrui , Dian Ziqin , Wang Binghui , Xia Xueshan
Published: August 2024

Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome caused by hantaviruses has long been a serious public health issue in Yunnan Province. Hantaviruses exhibit a high extent of biodiversity in their natural hosts, particularly in mammalian hosts. This study was conducted to screen for hantaviruses in bats and rodents in Yunnan Province and elucidate their genetic characteristics and possible zoonotic disease risk. Hantaviruses were detected in 202 bats and 372 rodents with the positive rates 27.49% and 1.25% respectively. A novel lineage (named Lineage 10) of the Seoul virus (SEOV) from rodents and the geographic clustering of hantavirus in bats were identified using phylogenetic analyses of the full-length M- and S-segments. Our study suggest a high cross-species transmissibility of hantaviruses in bats and existence of a new lineage of SEOV in rodents differing significantly from other SEOVs. These results provide data to support the prevention and control of hantavirus-associated diseases in Yunnan Province.
Wavelet phase coherence of ictal scalp EEG-extracted muscle activity (SMA) as a biomarker for sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP)
Authors: Gravitis Adam C. , Sivendiran Krishram , Tufa Uilki , Zukotynski Katherine , Chinvarun Yotin , Devinsky Orrin , Wennberg Richard , Carlen Peter L. , Bardakjian Berj L.
Published: August 2024

Objective

Approximately 50 million people worldwide have epilepsy and 8–17% of the deaths in patients with epilepsy are attributed to sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). The goal of the present work was to establish a biomarker for SUDEP so that preventive treatment can be instituted.

Approach

Seizure activity in patients with SUDEP and non-SUDEP was analyzed, specifically, the scalp EEG extracted muscle activity (SMA) and the average wavelet phase coherence (WPC) during seizures was computed for two frequency ranges (1–12 Hz, 13–30 Hz) to identify differences between the two groups.

Main results

Ictal SMA in SUDEP patients showed a statistically higher average WPC value when compared to non-SUDEP patients for both frequency ranges. Area under curve for a cross-validated logistic classifier was 81%.

Significance

Average WPC of ictal SMA is a candidate biomarker for early detection of SUDEP.
The limits of nudging: Results of a randomized trial of text messages to promote home-based caregiving and reduce perceptions of stigma for COVID-19 patients in Kenyan informal settlements
Authors: Tidwell James B. , Pinchoff Jessie , Abuya Timothy , Muluve Eva , Mwanga Daniel , Mbushi Faith , Austrian Karen
Published: August 2024

During the early stages of the global COVID-19 pandemic, governments searched for effective means to rapidly disseminate information about how to prevent the disease and care for sick household members. In June 2020, the government of Kenya considered sending text messages, a behavioral nudging approach, to inform and persuade the public to practice home-based care for those who were infected. We conducted a randomized evaluation of simple informational messages compared to messages targeting personal and social benefits for those receiving the messages. We hypothesized that those that received messages tailored around social or personal benefit would be more likely to undertake the promoted behaviors of isolating if infected with COVID-19 and intending to care for an infected family member. While fear and perceptions of stigma were widespread, more than two-thirds of respondents in the control condition expressed an intention to care for an infected family member at home. Despite greater recall of the personal benefit message, which used reciprocity as its key behavioral lever, intentions to provide care at home and perceptions of stigma did not differ across study groups. Rather, capabilities such as wealth and having sufficient room at home were the key determinants. While text messages as behavioral nudges may be useful for some behaviors, policymakers should consider a broader range of tools for behaviors that are influenced by people’s capabilities, since even low-cost interventions may crowd out the time and energy needed for other responses during an emergency.
Development and validation of a reversed-phase HPLC-UV method for simultaneous determination of levosulpiride and omeprazole in human plasma: Applicability of the method for evaluation of pharmacokinetic drug-drug interactions
Authors: Hashim Muhammad , Ahmad Lateef , Khan Amjad , Faheem Muhammad
Published: August 2024

Levosulpiride and omeprazole are co-prescribed for gastrointestinal disorders associated with depression and anxiety. Objective of the study was to develop a sensitive, robust and simple method for simultaneous analysis of levosulpiride and omeprazole in human plasma and applicability of the method in determination of pharmacokinetics drug-drug interaction. In the presented study, a reversed-phase HPLC-UV method was developed for the simultaneous determination of levosulpiride and omeprazole using pantoprazole as the internal standard. Experimental conditions were optimized and the developed method was validated as per standard guidelines (USP and ICH). Furthermore, the developed method was applied for evaluation of pharmacokinetics drug-drug interaction between levosulpiride (50 mg) and omeprazole (40 mg) in healthy human volunteers. Sharpsil C8 column (4.6 × 250 mm, 5 μm), Ultisil C8 column (4.6 mm × 150 mm, 5 μm) and Agilent C18 column (4.6 × 250 mm, 5 μm) were evaluated as stationary phase. The best resolution was achieved with Agilent C18 (4.6 x 250 mm, 5 μm) column and was selected for further study. The mobile phase consisted of a mixture of acetonitrile and phosphate buffer (pH 7.2) in 60:40 by volume, and was pumped at a flow rate of 1 mL/min. Detector wavelength was set at 280 nm. Levosulpiride and omeprazole were extracted from human plasma with ethyl acetate and dichloromethane (4:1, v/v). The calibration curves for both levosulpiride (5–150 ng/mL) and omeprazole (10–1500 ng/mL) were linear. The lower limit of quantification and limit of detection for levosulpiride were 5 and 2 ng/mL, while for omeprazole these were 10 and 3 ng/mL, respectively. Pharmacokinetics analysis showed that co-administration of omeprazole increased the AUC and Cmax of levosulpiride, while the clearance was reduced. Both the changes were insignificant. Similarly, no significant change in the pharmacokinetic parameters of omeprazole was observed with co-administration of levosulpiride.
The skin I live in: Pathogenesis of white-nose syndrome of bats
Authors: Isidoro-Ayza Marcos , Lorch Jeffrey M. , Klein Bruce S.
Published: August 2024

The emergence of white-nose syndrome (WNS) in North America has resulted in mass mortalities of hibernating bats and total extirpation of local populations. The need to mitigate this disease has stirred a significant body of research to understand its pathogenesis. Pseudogymnoascus destructans, the causative agent of WNS, is a psychrophilic (cold-loving) fungus that resides within the class Leotiomycetes, which contains mainly plant pathogens and is unrelated to other consequential pathogens of animals. In this review, we revisit the unique biology of hibernating bats and P. destructans and provide an updated analysis of the stages and mechanisms of WNS progression. The extreme life history of hibernating bats, the psychrophilic nature of P. destructans, and its evolutionary distance from other well-characterized animal-infecting fungi translate into unique host–pathogen interactions, many of them yet to be discovered.
Early career researchers in Madrid Salud: Exploring intersectoral dialogue between arts and health
Authors: Ávila Noemí , Claver Maria Dolores , Palomino Maria Luisa , Casla Ana
Published: August 2024

Madrid Salud, a public body of Madrid City Council responsible for prevention, promotion and community healthcare, initiated an early career researcher (ECR) in arts and health programme in 2017. This ongoing programme, in collaboration with Complutense University of Madrid, funded fellowships for Ph.D. students, supporting their training and research in the application of artistic methodologies within Madrid Salud’s teams and centres. This article outlines the programme’s implementation, emphasizing the significance of intersectoral actions for its success. Furthermore, it describes the experiences of ECRs within Madrid Salud, exploring how the arts contribute to contexts of prevention and health promotion.
Thalamic stroke and COVID-19 infection case report
Authors: Singh Maneesh
Published: August 2024

The thalamus is the part of the brain that transports in sensory information to the brain. It also has five major functions: arousal and pain, regulation, sensory information, speech and motor functioning, cognitive function, and mood. The thalamus relays sensory information such as pain, temperature, proprioception and light touch.Symptoms of thalamic strokes include: loss of pain and temperature sensation, loss of light touch and pressure on one side of body, vision problems, confusion, cognitive problems, sleeplessness. What makes his casenotable is the fact that this patient had a thalamic stroke due to COVID -19. He was relatively young with no other risk factors other than diabetes, which was being managed.
Optimizing Financial Management: Looking at the Story Behind the Saving Passion of Padangsidempuan City High School Students
Authors: Novebri  , Hakim Andy , Alfian Ian
Published: August 2024

The cultivation of true character starts from an early age in children, until they continue into adulthood. Character education is carried out in some ways, one of way is financial education through savings activities at school, either independently through the class treasurer or directly with the bank that comes to school. This research took place from March - May 2023 at eight high schools in the city of Padangsidempuan, which aims to know financial education and its impact on character building, involving students and teachers as the main informants, using the case study method through interviews and direct observation at schools. The results of the research found that (1) financial education is carried out in three ways, namely saving through class cash, saving through the bank, and saving independently at home using a piggy bank, (2) since Covid-19 there are no more banks coming to schools to quote savings to students who want to save, (3) students' low interest in saving, (4) most high school schools in the city of Padangsidempuan do not accommodate financial education through class cash savings activities. The low interest in saving money at high schools in the city of Padangsidempuan is caused by several things, such as the low or underprivileged economic conditions of students' families.
Quaternary Geology of the Bloomington 30- x 60-minute Quadrangle, Indiana
Authors: Loope Henry Munro , Antinao José Luis , Jacobs Peter , Gray Henry , Boulding J. Russell
Published: August 2024

The Quaternary Geology of the Bloomington 30- x 60-minute Quadrangle displays unconsolidated sediments deposited near the southern limit of multiple glaciations at the northern end of the Crawford Upland, Mitchell Plateau, and Norman Upland physiographic provinces in south-central Indiana. Glacial and proglacial deposits (diamicton, glaciofluvial, glaciolacustrine, and eolian sediments) of varying thickness associated with the Wisconsin, Illinois, and pre-Illinois Age glaciations overlie Paleozoic bedrock. Unconsolidated deposits were characterized through field observations, new and archived borehole data, lithologic information from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources water well database, and soils data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service, Soil Survey Geographic (SSURGO) database. A light detection and ranging-based digital elevation model was used in combination with geologic data to identify landforms and infer contacts between unconsolidated units. 
Summary descriptions of mapped units are listed on the map sheet with more detailed descriptions in the accompanying pamphlet. Geochronologic (luminescence and radiocarbon ages) and borehole data are also found in the pamphlet.  
In addition to the map and pamphlet, a composite spatial data set that conforms to the standardized database schema known as GeMS (Geologic Map Schema) is also available for download. Metadata records associated with each element within the spatial data set contain detailed descriptions of their purpose, constituent entities, and attributes. 
This geologic map was funded in part through the STATEMAP program supported by the U.S. Geological Survey under Cooperative Agreement No. G22AC00424-00.
Morphological studies of a composite coating comprising anatase TiO2, CeO2 and HAp on magnesium alloy AZ31B using the plasma electrolytic oxidation method for orthopaedic implants
Authors: Kumar Vinoth C. , Gajjela Rajyalakshmi
Published: August 2024

This research study focused on coating AZ31B magnesium alloy using plasma electrolytic oxidation with time durations of 4 min, 6 min, and 8 min in electrolytes containing sodium metasilicate and sodium hydroxide. The electrolytes were further enriched with different concentrations of cerium dioxide, anatase titanium dioxide and hydroxyapatite at a current density of 60 mA cm−2 and a frequency of 1,000 Hz. X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy were employed to analyse the phase formation, microstructure, and surface roughness of the coatings. The results indicated the occurrence of micro-discharges during the plasma electrolytic oxidation process, resulting in highly porous and rough surfaces. The contact angle measurements for the uncoated substrate were found to be 144.74° (±2.08), whereas the coated substrates exhibited contact angles of 107.92° (±2.16), 95.88° (±2.06) and 66.05° (±2.09) for the respective coating durations. This study also explores how a coating comprising Ca5(PO4)3/anatase titanium dioxide and hydroxyapatite affects the corrosion properties of AZ31B magnesium alloy when immersed in a simulated body fluid solution.
Religionspädagogische Internationalisierungsschübe zwischen 1970 und 2000 im Spiegel von Zeitschrifteneditorials
Authors: Ahme Benjamin
Published: August 2024

Die Religionspädagogik zeichnet sich durch ein zunehmendes Interesse an Prozessen aus, die nationalstaatliche Grenzen überwinden. Derartige Prozesse lassen sich an einer bisher erst wenig beachteten Textgattung festmachen: Zeitschrifteneditorials geben in fokussierter Weise Einblick in Schwerpunktsetzungen und Wegmarken des wissenschaftlich geführten religionspädagogischen Diskurses. Der Aufsatz gibt Einblick in die Analyse von je 30 Jahrgängen des „British Journal of Religious Education“ und der „Zeitschrift für Pädagogik und Theologie“ und weist dabei auf Motive hin, die zu einer zunehmenden Bedeutung internationaler Bezüge in den Zeitschriften geführt haben. Davon ausgehend werden Perspektiven für vergleichende, transnationale und auf internationalen Wissenstransfer ausgerichtete Forschung in der Religionspädagogik benannt.
KineWheel–DeepLabCut Automated Paw Annotation Using Alternating Stroboscopic UV and White Light Illumination
Authors: Albrecht Björn , Schatz Alexej , Frei Katja , Winter York
Published: August 2024

Uncovering the relationships between neural circuits, behavior, and neural dysfunction may require rodent pose tracking. While open-source toolkits such as DeepLabCut have revolutionized markerless pose estimation using deep neural networks, the training process still requires human intervention for annotating key points of interest in video data. To further reduce human labor for neural network training, we developed a method that automatically generates annotated image datasets of rodent paw placement in a laboratory setting. It uses invisible but fluorescent markers that become temporarily visible under UV light. Through stroboscopic alternating illumination, adjacent video frames taken at 720 Hz are either UV or white light illuminated. After color filtering the UV-exposed video frames, the UV markings are identified and the paw locations are deterministically mapped. This paw information is then transferred to automatically annotate paw positions in the next white light-exposed frame that is later used for training the neural network. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our method using a KineWheel–DeepLabCut setup for the markerless tracking of the four paws of a harness-fixed mouse running on top of the transparent wheel with mirror. Our automated approach, made available open-source, achieves high-quality position annotations and significantly reduces the need for human involvement in the neural network training process, paving the way for more efficient and streamlined rodent pose tracking in neuroscience research.
The effect of substitution rare earth metal on crystal structure and properties of quaternary La4-4xR4xGe3S12 (R – Er, Ho, Y, Dy, Tb) sulfide
Authors: Smitiukh O. , Marchuk O.
Published: August 2024

Establishing relationships between the distribution of atoms in a crystalline unit cell and the properties of phases is an important issue directly related to the application of functional materials. In this work, we present an analysis of the crystalline structure, chemical bonds, and prediction of material properties using the example of tetragonal phases La4-4xR4xGe3S12 (R - Er, Ho, Y, Dy, Tb), which crystallize in space group R3c. The presence of rare earth elements with high coordination in the first coordination sphere is a significant contribution to changing properties, particularly thermoelectric properties. This creates the possibility of increasing the entropy factor and, as a result, improving the thermoelectric characteristics. The parameters of the elementary cell of the initial ternary phase La4Ge3S12 decrease at a ratio of 1La:1R (R - Tb, Dy, Ho, Er) in the site 6a and 18b. In the Er-containing phase, the lowest distortion index for the [M1 8S] polyhedron, while in the [M1 9S] polyhedron it significantly increases. Additionally, the formation of "columns" from polyhedra [Ge2 6S] creates the possibility of directional excitation in one direction, which can also have a significant impact on material properties. Overall, the obtained non-symmetric materials may be promising for nonlinear optics.
The Role of Political Skill in Bigg Boss: Strategies for Survival and Behavioral Competencies in Reality Show
Authors: Jain Vikas , Tiwari Shivani
Published: August 2024

This study investigates how political skill turns into success on Bigg Boss, an Indian reality TV show. Political skill, involving adaptability and influence, is known to be valuable in organizations, but its reach beyond business is unexplored. This study analyzes Bigg Boss Season 14 to address this gap. A purposive and convenience sampling method was utilized. Housemates’ behaviors were analyzed through content analysis with a summative approach, identifying five key aspects of political skill: influencing, sincerity, deceitfulness, social astuteness, and networking. Housemate statements were translated and analyzed to identify recurring themes and patterns. Correlations between these behaviors and success in the game were examined. Results showed a link between all five behaviors and success, suggesting housemates who exhibited them more often lasted longer. The winner displayed the most social astuteness, followed by sincerity, networking, influencing, and lastly, deceitfulness. These findings highlight that political skill, characterized by a strategic combination of social behaviors, is key to winning Bigg Boss. The study offers a broader understanding of political skill by demonstrating its applicability beyond business and emphasizing the importance of using these behaviors skillfully and adaptively. It also suggests connections to other academic fields, opening doors for future research.
Ability of the Competition Council to Individualize the Fines for Infringement of Article 5 of the Law on Competition
Authors: Stelmokaitis Henrikas
Published: August 2024

In 2023, the Description of the Procedure for Setting the Amount of Fines for Infringements of the Law on Competition of the Republic of Lithuania was amended, but the system for setting the amount of the fine remained substantially unchanged. The author seeks to clarify, on the basis of an analysis of case law and arithmetic calculations, whether the Competition Council is able to properly differentiate fines, or whether the existing arithmetic model for calculating the fine excessively restricts the possibilities of differentiation.Neither the Law on Competition nor the Description of the procedure for determining the amount of fines imposed for infringements of the Law on Competition of the Republic of Lithuania contains a clear and consistent methodology for the calculation of fines. The Competition Council‘s resolutions outline the calculation of fines throughout their texts but do not clearly specify the exact mathematical sequence used for determining these fines. Moreover, the Competition Council has a very wide discretion in calculating the basic amount of the fine and does not always avoid logical errors and contradictions. For example, the ‚previous business year‘ often refers to years or even decades prior to the allegedly illegal conduct. The final amount of the fine, even if the gross revenue of the company at the time of the infringement is known, does not guarantee that one could be sure of the maximum amount of the fine, let alone the exact fine for a possible infringement.The analysis of the case law and examples of arithmetic calculations show that when the Competition Council calculates the basic amount of the fine and subsequently applies the coefficients that are mandatory for the calculation of the fine, except for certain extremely rare situations, which are not related to the infringement but rather to the entity‘s choice of differentiation of the portfolio of business activities, the fine to be calculated in accordance with the Description will be the same as the maximum amount provided by the Act.Taking into account the current coefficients in the Description and the arithmetical sequence of steps, it is clear that in the case of agreements between competitors, the fine will most often reach the maximum amount , i.e. above the threshold of 10% of the gross revenue. Accordingly, the Description should be considered contrary to the higher-ranking act, namely Article 36 of the Law on Competition, which mandates the differentiation of fines.
The Impact of the EU General Data Protection Regulation on the Admissibility of Evidence in Lithuanian Civil Procedure
Authors: Bartkus Jurgis
Published: August 2024

The article analyses the impact of the EU General Data Protection Regulation on the admissibility of evidence in Lithuanian civil procedure after the judgment of the Court of Justice of the European Union in case C-268/21. The article provides an overview of the requirements of the General Data Protection Regulation for civil proceedings and identifies specific problematic aspects that could unbalance the evidentiary system in Lithuanian civil proceedings.
Intellectual Property Disputes before the General Court of the European Union: Procedure and Experience Drawn from Handling Lithuanian Cases*
Authors: Ūkelytė Renata
Published: August 2024

The article presents the particular procedure before the General Court of the European Union, i.e. the specific rules applicable in case of actions brought against the decisions of the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) set out in the Rules of Procedure of the General Court complemented by the Practice Rules for the Implementation of the Rules of Procedure (last amended 30 November 2022).In addition, the article covers the procedural particularities of intellectual property cases resulting from the status of the other party in the procedure before the EUIPO, the rules of determining the language of the case, the absence of a second exchange of pleadings as well as other matters.The author analyses the procedural aspect of cases examined during the twenty years of Lithuania’s membership in the EU trade mark protection system.The article presents a study of the experience drawn by the Lithuanian lawyers in the field of intellectual property before the General Court and aims at providing intellectual property litigation experts with a relevant overview of the recent developments.
Faktor Risiko Yang Berhubungan Dengan Kejadian Diabetes Melitus Tipe 2 Di Wilayah Kerja Puskesmas Purbaratu Kota Tasikmalaya
Authors: Nuryantini Puput , Setiyono Andik , Annashr Nissa Noor
Published: August 2024

Saat ini diabetes melitus (DM) menjadi salah satu ancaman kesehatan global. Pada tahun 2022, jumlah penderita diabetes terbanyak di Kota Tasikmalaya terdapat di wilayah kerja Puskesmas Purbaratu. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis faktor risiko yang berhubungan dengan kejadian diabetes melitus tipe 2 di wilayah kerja Puskesmas Purbaratu Kota Tasikmalaya tahun 2023. Penelitian ini menggunakan desain case control. Populasi kasus adalah penderita DM tipe 2 yang tercatat selama bulan Januari-Juni 2023 di Puskesmas Purbaratu. Populasi kontrol adalah responden yang tidak menderita DM tipe 2 di wilayah kerja Puskesmas Purbaratu. Teknik pengambilan sampel kelompok kasus menggunakan total sampling, sehingga besar sampel sebanyak 86 orang. Pada kelompok kontrol, sampel diambil menggunakan teknik purposive sampling dengan perbandingan antar kelompok 1:1, sehingga besar sampel kontrol sebanyak 86 orang. Variabel bebas yaitu riwayat keluarga DM, aktivitas fisik, dan diet. Variabel terikat yaitu kejadian diabetes melitus tipe 2. Teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan yaitu melalui wawancara menggunakan kuesioner. Analisis data yang digunakan yaitu analisis univariat dan bivariat menggunakan uji chisquare. Hasil penelitian menunjukan adanya hubungan pada variabel riwayat DM keluarga (p-value= 0,000 dengan OR= 2,423) dan aktivitas fisik (p-value= 0,000 dengan OR= 2,655) dengan kejadian DM tipe 2. Tidak terdapat hubungan antara diet (p-value= 0,436) dengan kejadian DM tipe 2. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, untuk meminimalisisr kejadian DM tipe 2 disarankan untuk menerapkan gaya hidup sehat yaitu pola makan bergizi seimbang, cek kesehatan rutin dan rajin olahraga.
TAKDIR DAN BUDAYA DALAM ISLAM MENURUT HAJI AGUS SALIM
Authors: Wardana Ghufron Akbari , Hanafi Hanafi
Published: August 2024

Takdir merupakan salah satu bahasan kunci dalam tiap-tiap agama. Disebabkan oleh latar belakang dan konstruk budaya yang beragam, internalisasi paham takdir pun turut bermacam-macam. Begitu pula dengan budaya, tumbuh kembangnya tergantung pada embrio awal keberadaannya. Terkait bagaimana budaya itu dapat diidentifikasi, bergantung pada ihwal yang telah ada di dalam kebudayaan itu sendiri. Sementara, takdir pun hanya dapat diklaim apabila telah terjadi.            Bagi Agus Salim, takdir dan budaya diintegrasikan sebagai satu kesatuan yang saling berdialektika. Mulai dari kehadiran manusia yang serba misterius; tidak dapat memilih bagaimana sistem biologisnya bekerja, hingga khazanah alam sekitar tempat kelahirannya yang menjadi pengetahuan awal terhadap apa yang sudah terjadi.            Penelitian ini mempunyai tujuan untuk mengetahui bagaimana dialektika antara takdir dan budaya melalui prosedur metodis deskriptif analisis dengan memperhatikan sosio-historis kehidupan Agus Salim. Metode deskriptif dipakai untuk mengolah data yang berkaitan dengan konsep Takdir dan Budaya, sedangkan metode analisis digunakan untuk menyingkap bagaimana takdir dalam Islam sebagai salah satu stimulan atas terbentuknya beberapa budaya, serta bagaimana ajaran Islam yang unity menjadi berbeda pada praktiknya dalam beberapa budaya.            Hasilnya, pertautan antara takdir dan budaya layaknya ruh dan raga, berbeda tapi saling mempengaruhi satu sama lain. Menurut Agus Salim, Takdir mula-mulanya eksis di dalam budaya yang selalu tumbuh berdialektika dalam kehidupan, diwariskan dan disesuaikan dengan konteks waktu dan tempat terjadinya. Manusia yang hidup di dalam kebudayaan, memiliki budi dan daya untuk mengolah dan mengubah alam. Apa yang terjadi di alam tempat manusia hidup itu disebut dengan takdir.            Sungguh pun begitu, ajaran tentang takdir yang menyuruh manusia untuk menerima saja apa yang ditakdirkan, menstimulus budaya untuk bergerak menuju ke arah kebenaran yang hakiki. Agus Salim menegaskan, yang paling penting dari pemahaman manusia terhadap takdir itu adalah keterpeliharaannya dari takabur dan putus asa. Bahwa apapun yang diterima atau menjadi pilihan manusia yang mengada di dalam kebudayaan, tentu dilatarbelakangi dan atau distimulus oleh satu kekuasaan dari luar diri yang berlaku atasnya.
The Dynamics of Bank Mergers: Motives and Effects on Post Merger Productivity
Authors: Agrawal Saroj Rameshwar , Salunkhe Shyam Jivan
Published: August 2024

This study was carried out to analyse the influence of merger and acquisition activity on the performance of Indian banks. The study examines the current developments Merger and Acquisition (M AND A) in Indian banking and the subsequent impact of M AND As investigated in Indian banks. The study focuses on the performance evaluation of M AND As in the Indian banking sector before and after the merger and acquisition activity. Overall, the report suggests that M AND A transactions in the banking industry may produce considerable value for shareholders.
Mycoplasma hyopharyngis isolated from the joint of a weaner: A case report
Authors: Földi Dorottya , Nagy Eszter Zsófia , Tóth Gergely , Makrai László , Gombos László , Kreizinger Zsuzsa , Gyuranecz Miklós
Published: August 2024

Background

Mycoplasma hyopharyngis is a commensal bacterium in the upper respiratory tract of swine. As it is recognized to be apathogenic, examinations regarding this species are scarce, compared to other swine mycoplasmas. However, in a few cases, M. hyopharyngis was detected in lesions of different organs. This report presents a case study in which M. hyopharyngis (along with other bacteria) was isolated from the joint of a pig showing lameness.

Case presentation

A Hungarian farm was repopulated with 250 gilts and 1,700 finishers after undergoing a complete depopulation and disinfection. Two days later, cases of diarrhoea and septicaemia caused by Salmonella enterica serovar typhimurium were seen in the finishers. At the same time, following the first farrowing, swollen joints were observed in 21–25 days old piglets. Joint samples were collected, and isolation of Mycoplasma sp. and other bacteria was attempted. Analysis of the joint samples revealed the presence of Staphylococcus haemolyticus, Staphylococcus hyicus, Aerococcus viridans, Trueperella pyogenes, Streptococcus agalactiae and M. hyopharyngis.

Conclusions

This is the second isolation of M. hyopharyngis from joints, which highlights the necessity of a better understanding the biology of this often-overlooked species, and its role in the progress of arthritis or other lesions.
‘A Brother’s Portion’: Regifted and Requested Items in Safavid–Mughal Diplomatic Gift Exchanges
Authors: Guliyev Ahmad
Published: August 2024

Throughout the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, the Safavid and Mughal empires forged a remarkable history of dynastic interaction through the frequent exchange of correspondence and gifts. The ‘regifting’ of luxury objects and exotic goods across physical and cultural boundaries was a common practice in the early modern period. Safavid and Mughal rulers mainly regifted precious items of a rare nature to impress their counterparts. The paper examines the intermediary role of the Safavids in the circulation of objects between India, Russia, and the Ottoman Empire.
Thermal, structural, and sensory properties of tiger nut oil (Cyperus esculentus L.) – beeswax oleogels flavoured with butter and honey
Authors: Keskin-Uslu E.
Published: August 2024

The aims of this study were to prepare butter and honey flavoured tiger nut oil oleogels with beeswax oleogelator and to compare them with the unflavoured control sample. The oleogels prepared with 10 wt% beeswax and 0.5 wt% of each flavour addition were analysed for main physicochemical, thermal, and structural properties. In addition, a trained panel described the samples with 11 sensory descriptive (hardness, spreadability, roasted, liquefaction, rancid, waxy, nutty, butter, honey, cooling, and mouth coating) terms. It was found that the oleogels melt around 52 °C and included β′ type polymorphs. The sensory data proved that the samples were quite well spreadable and had enough hardness to stay as solid-fat samples at room temperature. Further, addition of butter and honey flavours masked the waxy attribute. In conclusion, flavoured tiger nut oil-beeswax oleogels were new and successful products, and future studies with food applications are suggested.
Model Partisipasi Masyarakat dalam Program Kota Tanpa Kumuh (KOTAKU) di Kelurahan Airlangga Kecamatan Gubeng Kota Surabaya
Authors: Akbar Muhammad Rizky , Rindawati Rindawati , Muzayanah Muzayanah
Published: August 2024

The focus of this research is to describe the participation model of the Airlangga Village community in the KOTAKU program. This study is essential because, empirically, community participation in the Airlangga sub-district has been going well and is sustainable in protecting the environment. It is necessary to study the model and form of participation implemented through the involvement of PUPR, local government, government partners, the private sector and the village community. Examining the internal and external factors that support collaboration, the designed collaborative model is expected to contribute suggestions for solving slum areas in other regions. Using a quantitative research approach, this study produced the following data: 1). The form of participation used by 99 respondents was 20% using thoughts, 29% using energy and 22% using expertise and 16% using materials or money. 2). The collaboration model used by the Airlangga sub-district is 4-Key or 4K, namely Institutionalism, Citizen Control, Facilitative Leadership and Communication. 3) Factors that influence community participation are age, gender and level of education. External factors that influence community participation are communication, leadership and the role of the facilitator