bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peran Guru dalam Mengembangkan Kecerdasan Spiritual Anak Di TK Raudhatul Muttaqin Welahan Jepara
Authors: Safinah Safinah , Azim Irfan
Published: August 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk  mendeskripsikan tentang peran guru dalam mengembangkan kecerdasan spiritual anak di TK Raudhatul Muttaqin Welahan Jepara. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif  yang dimana peneliti bertindak sebagai instrumen atau kunci, dan data diperoleh dengan, pertama;  observasi keadaan sekolah, kedua; wawancara dengan Guru, ketiga; dokumentasi. Teknik analisis data berupa reduksi data dengan memilih data-data yang sesuai dengan fokus penelitian, kemudian penyajian data dengan mendeksripsikan setiap data-data yang ditemukan dilapangan dan selanjutnya penarikan kesimpulan dari hasil perolehan data dan deskripsi data  yang sudah dilakukan.
Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa: peran guru dalam mengembangkan kecerdasan spiritual yaitu (1) perencanaan dalam mengembangkan kecedasan melalui kegiatan-kegiatan keagamaan (religious culture), dan penanaman pengetahuan kegamaan (religious knowing) sebagai wadah untuk membiasakan siswa mengetahui dan melaksanakan ajaran agama. (2) Menerapkan proses pembiasaan kepada anak. Yaitu dengan membiasakan anak mengucapkan salam dan membaca do’a ketika memulai pelajaran dan juga ketika pelajaran berakhir, membaca do’a sebelum makan dan sesudah makan, dan do’a sehari-hari. (3) membiasakan anak bertutur dan bertingkah laku yang baik misalnya anak dibiasakan untuk tidak berkata kasar, anak dibiasakan untuk selalu menghormati yang lebih tua, anak dibiasakan untuk selalu menerima sesuatu dengan tangan kanan, anak dibiasakan untuk mengucapkan terima kasih.
Significance of Utility Patents in the Economic Development of India
Authors: Joseph Aristotle. S.  , Prof. S.Shanthakumar
Published: August 2024

Utility Patents protects the incremental inventions on existing inventions, which do not fulfill the stern patentability criteria. But in India, we still do not have any laws on Utility Patent. Hence, there is an imminent necessity for legislation on protection of Utility Patent rights in India. The effective diffusion of innovation has always contributed to the economic growth of the country. If laws on protection of Utility Protection Rights are legislated in India, like any other country in the world, our country will also progress in the ranking of the international IPR index, and the Global Innovation Index, which in turn will contribute and enhance the economic development of India.
Climatic Conditions And Its Effect on World Dynamics: A Burning Question
Authors: Dave Paridhi
Published: August 2024

World dynamics appear to be in a perpetual state of crisis, in and out. There exists an increasing risk of a catastrophic war at an international level with each passing day, amongst these tensions, the most defining threat of the century is climate change. The drastic variations in the climatic conditions have the potential to affect the geopolitical situation of the world. Climate change is real and its effects will not only test the international system but also trigger social and economic upheaval. Threats at the global level, call for cooperation at the global level. The developments in the climatic conditions will inevitably lead to structural transformation in the domain of global politics, predominantly impacting the poorer countries. The alterations in the climatic conditions will not only lead to the creation of new crises but also largely exacerbate the pre-existing ones. In light of these unpropitious circumstances, state responses to climatic phenomena are more of a determining factor than the effects themselves. It is well established that resources are scarce and as a result, debates between countries will intensify due to the ever-increasing climate fears; humankind has proven itself to be highly adaptable, but the combined effects of climatic conditions on cities, food production and water supplies pose an imminent and enormous danger to Mother Earth. It is quintessential for the human race to confront the question of climate change with a sense of achieving a common goal. This paper aims to analyse the impending doom posed by climate change, and its effects on global economy, the issue of climate refugees and international relations in the contemporary era.
Analysing Command and Control Mechanism and Market Based Instruments for Implementation of Polluter Pays Principle in India
Authors: Gupta Neeraj Kumar
Published: August 2024

India is facing unprecedented environmental issues as we find that various Indian cities find place in the list of most polluted cities. It is the dire need to deal with the issue of environmental pollution and government has also proposed various policies of environment protection. The paper argues that the traditional Command and Control (CAC) mechanism needs to be supplemented by modern tools of environmental regulation. One of the most important developments in this field has occurred in the discipline of economics. Various Market Based Instruments (MBI) have been proposed by economists for environmental regulation. The first section highlights various environmental services which have to be taken into account in policy formation of environmental regulation. The second section discusses major features of CAC mechanism and fourth section explains the meaning and types of Market Based Instruments (MBI) for environmental regulation. The fifth section of the paper makes a brief analysis of Indian environmental policy and law to understand whether the same has the scope of adopting the MBIs and what MBIs are currently prevalent in Indian environmental law. Last section gives a comparative analysis of environmental regulation with the help of MBI and CAC and conclusion follows.
Joint ownership of Intellectual Property Rights and Bio-diversity authority on Biological resources - An analysis
Authors: Kayalvizhi N.
Published: August 2024

“Humankind should understand the importance of preserving biodiversity. The diversity of life forms on Earth is the culmination of millions of years of the productive genius of nature. It is nature’s insurance against extreme events that may disturb the delicate balance of life on this planet. We need to work together and act before a catastrophe is upon us. India stands committed to work with all parties to reach the happy compromise that will secure a future that provides ecological and economic space for each one of us and sustainable growth for all of us”2
Namami Gange Scheme - A Success or mere propaganda?
Authors: Mathur Aarup
Published: August 2024

This research paper talks about the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) which is popularly known as NAMAMI GANGE approved as 'Flagship Programme' by the Union Government in June 2014 with budget outlay of Rs.20,000 Crore to accomplish the twin objectives of effective abatement of pollution, conservation, and rejuvenation of National River Ganga.The main emphasis of this research paper is to decide that this programme launched by the government was really for helping society at large by cleaning the mother river Ganga or just has been launched for spreading a false or over exaggerated statement, which are spread in order to get some political gain and public support.It further talks about the key achievements that this project has achieved in last few years like Creating Sewerage Treatment Capacity, Afforestation, and Industrial Effluent Monitoring etc. Also includes authentic researches made on this project including several reasons and claiming that Ganga will not be clean by 2020 (which is the target set by the government). Both the aspects will be looked fairly and a comparative analysis will be done on both sides and will come on a conclusion that whether it is a success or just a mere propaganda.
National Green Tribunal: Drifting Singularity
Authors: Mathew Shinsa P
Published: August 2024

National Green Tribunal established under National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 for the expeditious, effective, and speedy justice in environmental cases, made tremendous changes in the field of environmental justice. It reduced the procedural complexities manifesting green light to the citizens to approach the benches for their environmental concerns. During the bygone eight years a number of noteworthy environment friendly decisions can be pointed out. The paper deals with case analysis of National Green Tribunal compared with earlier Supreme Court decisions. Within the short span of time, the NGT decisions are eye-catching for their drastic rulings in favour of environment. Environmental protection and climate change go hand in hand and environmental protection becomes a necessary condition for controlling the climate change where the role of NGT is crucial.
Redefining the term Climate Refugees
Authors: Swayamprakash Ashis , Priydarshini Srutee
Published: August 2024

Natural disasters, like cyclones, leave countless people homeless especially in tiny island nations. As more and more people are being forced out of their habitat the concept of environmentally displaced people comes to light. Scholars predict by the year 2050, the number of people coming under that umbrella could increase from 20 million to 200 million. Those numbers look threatening and they are as this happens to be a substantially big population and displacement of that magnitude could lead to international migration induced by climate change. Thus, giving rise to the concept of “Climate refugee”. Refugees have been defined by the 1951 Geneva Convention on Refugees which happens to be a political definition. Some authors say that recognition of people displaced due to climate change as “refugees” will be a solution as this will help them find asylum, but it is highly disputed due to several reasons. The purpose of this paper is to critically examine the proposed solution of defining “climate refugees”. The most serious argument is the problems associated with the eventual broadening of the meaning of legal terms. A process that could easily lead to the potential protection of all-and-no individual(s) in need of protection. The goal is to address the need of dispensing justice to the displaced people to help them “survive”. As well as formulating policy frameworks for a more sustainable global setup for a long-term solution.
A Prologue: Mission of Life
Authors: Goel Justice Adarsh Kumar
Published: August 2024

Generally, the law students start their studies from Preamble to the Constitution. Students also read Article 51-A of the Constitution laying down Fundamental Duties. One of such duties is to be inspired by the “noble ideals which inspired our national struggle for freedom” While the students read and even memorise these provisions, they do so as part of their syllabus. Some believe that these provisions have no relevance beyond using the knowledge of the same for the profession. In other words, their functional utility is not realised. Is it so? Let’s examine.
Law, Justice and Globalisation
Authors: Rao Prof. Srikrishna Deva
Published: August 2024

Law and justice are inter-related and interconnected concepts. More often, the concept of justice is perceived from the lens of the administration of justice, where the state institutions are responsible for guaranteeing justice. Justice is an important virtue of all social institutions and significant part of law and justice system. Indeed, securing justice is the ultimate aim and purpose of the law. Justice as an individual virtue guides legal and moral theory and acts as the framework for ethical behaviour. The conception of justice is widely based on what is morally acceptable behaviour that conforms to the socially acceptable principles. Justice is an evolving idea that has the potential to produce harmony between different groups and communities in the society. Today, globalisation has transcended the world and integrated human beings and societies. It is in this context, it is pertinent to explore the relationship between law, justice and globalisation and analyse the role of law as a means to secure justice with the advent of globalisation.In this article, I will briefly explore four ideas centred on law, justice and globalisation. The first part will discuss the notion of justice and its interrelationship with law. The second part will analyse the different dimensions of justice. The theories of justice are explained in third part introducing John Rawls, Robert Nozick and Amartya Sen and preliminary reflections on globalisation by Santos, William Twining and Upendra Baxi. The last part will look at the ameliorative aspect of justice which is access to justice.
Environmental Governance in India: Towards carbon emission mitigation and adaptation
Authors: Shah Dr. Hardik
Published: August 2024

Environmental governance in India emerged in the seventies and gained public appeal in the subsequent years. In India, although Constitution and country’s structure of polity provide possibility for a multi-tiered environmental governance system, yet this possibility has not been sufficiently explored. Now, environmental governance is prime focus of governments across the world. Thus, government is undertaking series of mitigation and adaptation measures under its policies and programmes. However, the research on environmental governance is very limited in India. Viewing this, this paper attempts to discuss the concept of environmental governance and policies of the government for low carbon emissions. The submission discusses environmental policy of the government, low electricity consumption, eco-friendly transports, fuel efficiency and financial measures. Towards the end, a set of policy recommendations are discussed. The study is conducted mainly based on the existing secondary sources of data and analytical approach is followed in the paper. The aim of this paper is to identify the environmental governance measures undertaken by government for reduction of carbon emissions and curbing climate change.
Understanding Judicial Activism and its impact
Authors: Pandey Shyam Prakash
Published: August 2024

Judicial activism is a judicial philosophy holding that the courts can and should go beyond the applicable law to consider broader societal implications of its decisions. The objective of this paper is to study the active role of Indian Judiciary for promoting Justice. Judicial Activism is the tool that has helped the judiciary to create a supremacy over the affairs of the other two organs and their functioning. The society is to be regulated beyond the realm of laws as well, whenever there is a grey area or loopholes, judiciary cannot just sit quietly and let injustice happen and thus they play the role of protectors of law beyond the subjective laws as well. The paper also analyses the impact of judicial activism on Indian society and Indian politics. It can be conclude that when the elected representatives fail to create a welfare state then the role of judiciary becomes indispensable but the judiciary cannot intervene in the state affairs just to show its supremacy.
Analysis of Compulsory Licensing in India and its Perceived Impact During the Covid Era
Authors: Parthasarthi V.
Published: August 2024

Compulsory licensing can be defined as a mechanism which would enable the State to use the invention without the prior consent from the inventor or the patent right holder. The Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) agreement provides provisions for patenting of drugs, it also provides certain provisions for compulsory licensing mechanism, to keep a check on the possible abuse of patent rights. There has been an imbalance between profits and drug accessibility to people throughout the world, including India. The Indian patent regime has changed drastically since the landmark Judgment of Bayer v. Natco , it was evident that the judicial approach upheld the public interest and ensured that the pharmaceutical companies do not abuse their position. Granting patent security to pharmaceuticals particularly fundamental medications has dependably been a challenged one. Further, the subsequent judgements on the said subject matter has created confusion as far as the stance of compulsory licensing standards in India are concerned. The inborn tussle between profit driven medication organizations and welfare arranged governments trying to guarantee less expensive access to fundamental prescriptions has as often as possible involved the worldwide attention. The Covid 19 pandemic has disrupted many lives all over the world, but since the invention of numerous vaccines, there has been a ray of hope to cure the virus at a large scale. However, the governments and the pharma companies need to have an agreement in order to provide vaccine and healthcare to vast majority of population. Thus, the compulsory licensing route is being explored by various governments in order to provide healthcare, this paper aims to explore the fundamentals of compulsory licensing in India and its possible application in the Covid 19 scenario.
Doctrine of Res Gestae: a Critical Analysis
Authors: Shahi Sarvesh Kumar , Mohapatra Aditi
Published: August 2024

The Doctrine of Res Gestae is embodied in Section 6 of the Indian Evidence Act,1872 and, the doctrine is an exception to the hearsay clause, however, in a court of law, hearsay testimony is not admissible. It is critical to analyze what constitutes a transaction, where it starts and ends, and it is not a res gestae if the given facts are unable to connect themselves to the prime transaction resulting in inadmissibility. If a comment is made under the burden of excitement, then it is considered admissible in the eyes of the court because it's all part of the same transaction. The ambiguity of Section 6 of the Indian Evidence Act,1872 gives it the power. Section 6 is admissible only if the testimony is established to be part of the same transaction, however, the Court must determine if it is valid or not.
Environmental Change and its effect on well-being: Indian Scenario
Authors: Glslawjournal Glslawjournal
Published: August 2024

There is well established consensus that the earth is getting warmed at a rate unprecedented during the post hunter-gatherer human existence. The third assessment report of the intergovernmental Panel on Climate change so published in the year 2001, explains further stating that “there is new and stronger evidence that most of the warming so observed over the last fifty years is likely to be attributable to human activities”. These does include not only rising surface temperatures, but also increasingly frequent floods and droughts and changes in natural ecosystems. All such changes may be linked to the health of human societies. Climate conditions do affect human wellbeing both directly and indirectly, through the influences on the levels of pollution in the Air, on the agriculture land, marine and freshwater systems that provide us basic stuff for survival. Keeping this in mind, the researcher would like to unearth the hidden complexities pertaining to this subject of discussion thereby defining the role of the international community with special reference to India thereby highlighting the major cause accountable for the climate change which are going to create very serious health hazards in times to come. Ultimately, the researcher would like to recommend certain suggestions in order to mitigate this issue to a great extant.
Policy Intervention and Legislative Framework Relating to the Sustainability of Built Structures in India
Authors: Tiwari Prashant Kumar , Chandra T.G Jagadeesh
Published: August 2024

If not coupled with effective urbanization and utmost planning for crucial and optimum resource utilization, sustainable development becomes a fiction. Rapid urbanization and industrialization have been a key source of concern for the environment's consistent deterioration. With the presence of evident impediments, there is already a conscious limit on industrial growth in place. However, urbanization cannot be fully stifled in order to foster green movement, and vice versa. Among the many efforts made by the Indian government to improve energy efficiency and the sustainability of the built environment, the desire to incorporate important market players, along with legislative incentives, has begun to make a difference. The primary actors have been divided over the choice of ratings since the introduction of GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment), IGBC (Indian Green Building Council), and BEE (Bureau of Energy Efficiency), offering a bewildered outlook with the many regulatory indexes and perimeters. The policies/ratings/mechanisms in place in many states to maintain the energy efficiency of the built environment are incompatible, resulting in a significant margin of error. For efficient implementation of these policies, the involvement of adequately empowered local entities becomes critical. This cannot be done without first examining the influence of current regulations and frameworks on the energy usage and functioning of the built environment, which includes both residential and commercial structures.
Marine Pollution: A Relative Analysis of the Efficacy of the Persisting Laws in Attaining Sustainable Environment
Authors: Shree N. Vani , Angadi Anindita
Published: August 2024

Oceans are one of the most treasured resources of the Planet. Almost 70% of the earth’s surface comprises of the oceans. It not only shelters the aquatic beings but also serves multiple purposes ranging from food, medicine, transportation, recreation and the like. The ocean act as one of the chief regulators of the climate by transporting the heat waves from the equator to the poles and thus moderating the climate and the weather patterns. It is responsible for producing about 50% of the oxygen and is equipped to stock 50 times more carbon dioxide than the atmosphere. The ocean in the present day can be regarded as the common dumping place. Ocean was a place which was rich with diverse aquatic species and now all that can be found there is plastic bags, water bottles, hazardous chemicals, oil from boats and ships, sewage substances rendering the ocean population to extinction. Marine pollution is one of the burning issues which needs serious attention and immediate action must be taken in this regard to withhold any further corruption of the aquatic life. There is a mandate on the States to control the aquatic pollution and protect the coastal-environments. In the contemporary world where the right to a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment has been recognized in over 155 countries, the protection and prevention of marine litter and plastic pollution has become the national agenda for majority of the countries. Despite the persisting laws at place, it can be observed that the marine pollution is on the rise. About 11 million metric tons of plastic waste enter the ocean every year which is presumed to triplicate by 2040. The issue at hand is a very grave and has caused and in future is capable of causing irretrievable damage to the economies. Through this paper the authors intend to analyze the laws and the Government actions in preventing aquatic pollution.
Guest Article
Authors: Agarwal Hon’ble Mrs. Justice Sunita
Published: August 2024

Speech as Guest of Honour at Expert Lecture Session at Faculty of Law, GLS University on October 28, 2023.
Mass Mediation in Disasters – Mitigating the Inherent Risks
Authors: Mahaseth Harsh , Jain Juhi , Dang Muskan
Published: August 2024

Disasters in general render victims vulnerable, especially at the hands of insurance representatives. Given the mental distress that the victims are already reeling under, among other factors, and the power that insurance companies exercise during this time, aggravates this issue. Often litigation is resorted to, but to no avail, given the inherent pitfalls of the mechanism. Mediation in such scenarios is seen as an effective remedy to resolve disputed insurance claims. In fact, the success of mediation during multiple disasters over the past few decades have proved its strength. While mediation is the best alternative, it suffers from certain risks. The aim of this paper is to therefore evaluate the special risks posed in such mass mediation. This paper will first introduce the concept of how mediation comes into play post disasters and why it is seen as the best system to resolve disputed insurance claims. It will subsequently look at some of the factors, both internal and external that pose challenges to this mechanism in the context of a post-disaster set up.  This paper will subsequently analyze the different cases where mediation was used to settle the insurance claims and success of the respective programs. Lastly, this paper will then look at the implications for system designers and mediators, and finally conclude with recommendations for the furtherance of mass mediation.
Critical Analysis of the Right to Health of Tribal Minorities - an Indian Perspective
Authors: Gangurde Rahul Dattu
Published: August 2024

India has signed the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, but the country's health care system has not received the adequate funding or attention it needs to meet the convention's standards. Health and education are crucial to realizing children's rights, but to do so we must shift away from a welfare model. Special care must be taken to ensure the health of the newborn (survival), baby (immunizations, nutrition), and preschooler (infections, development). Completely functioning health care delivery systems, well executed programs, and comprehensive accountability. All children should have access to free preventative care and basic medical treatment. The disadvantaged need access to practical health literacy education. Because of a severe lack of access to medical care, the health of indigenous people is in a precarious state. Women and children in the neighbourhood are disproportionately affected by malnutrition, which is the leading cause of mortality. The indigenous tribal people of India still face significant obstacles in the health sector, despite India's 68 years of independence. These include a lack of education, the absence of even basic health care, and food poverty. Natural resources are dwindling as a direct consequence of increasing land grabs by corporations, which is wreaking havoc on indigenous communities that have no other means of subsistence. Unemployment among native/tribal youngsters is a major problem. Hence, it becomes important to evaluate the healthcare rights of tribal communities in India. This paper is an attempt to analyse the provision of Right to Health for the tribal communities. It will further argue, whether Right to Health should be explicitly considered as a fundamental right under Part III of the Constitution of India.
Judicial Review of Ordinary Laws and Constitutional Amendments: A Comparative study
Authors: Goyal Tanvi
Published: August 2024

Judicial review is the essence of rule of law and supremacy of law in democratic countries. It is an important tool in the hands of the judiciary. Judicial review allows courts to review laws, whether made by the Parliament, executive, judiciary or otherwise. If there are laws that contradict the constitution, then they can be struck down as unconstitutional or held ultra-vires. The basis of the principle of Judicial review lies in the fact that in case of a conflict between the constitution i.e. the law of the land and any other law, the judiciary will choose the constitution and thus uphold its supremacy.
The Analysis Study of Risk Factor, Management and Outcome of Obesity in Children: A Comprehensive Systematic Review
Authors: Saleh Hendra , Pasambo Trisnawanta Asih , Leo Henry
Published: August 2024

Background: Overweight and obesity under 18 years of age has been linked to an increased risk of premature mortality from middle adulthood onward. The aim: The aim of this study to show about risk factor, management and outcome of obesity in children. Methods: By the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) 2020, this study was able to show that it met all of the requirements. Result: Eight publications were found to be directly related to our ongoing systematic examination after a rigorous three-level screening approach. Subsequently, a comprehensive analysis of the complete text was conducted, and additional scrutiny was given to these articles. Conclusion: the broad principle of treatment is to adjust the chronically positive energy balance. While lifestyle and behavior modifications with dietary changes and increased physical activity are the integral part of obesity management, the efficacy and sustainability are limited, especially for those with severe obesity. With emerging evidence on new pharmacological agents, it is hoped that obesity management in children could be improved in the future.
The Analysis Study of Gender and Risk of Congenital Hypothyroidism : A Comprehensive Systematic Review
Authors: Pasambo Trisnawanta Asih , Saleh Hendra , Akbar Rafiqa Rais
Published: August 2024

Background: Congenital hypothyroidism is defined as a deficiency of thyroid hormone at birth and is one of the most common endocrine disorders in newborns. Congenital hypothyroidism, with a prevalence of 1 in 3000-4000 live births, is the most common preventable cause of mental retardation in children. The aim: The aim of this study to show about gender and risk of congenital hypothyroidism. Methods: By the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) 2020, this study was able to show that it met all of the requirements. Result: Eight publications were found to be directly related to our ongoing systematic examination after a rigorous three-level screening approach. Subsequently, a comprehensive analysis of the complete text was conducted, and additional scrutiny was given to these articles. Conclusion: many risk factors are involved in the development of congenital hypothyroidism in children. It should be noted that the irreversible consequences of this disease for children including mental retardation is one of the cases which to control and remove it. Accordingly, awareness of the birth season could help policymakers who plan preventive programs to reduce the false negative results among neonates, especially girls.
An automated separator to exclude lumpfish with deformed suckers
Authors: Yague-Barantchikova Karolina , Garcia de Leaniz Carlos
Published: August 2024

Salmon farming is threatened by sea lice infestations, which impact fish health, compromise welfare and reduce market value. The use of lumpfish as cleaner fish offers a natural solution for sea lice control, but the delousing efficacy of lumpfish can be hindered by morphological deformities, particularly in the ventral suckers (suction cups) of the fish. Sucker deformities increase mortality rates, hamper welfare and impose a substantial financial burden. Deformed lumpfish, therefore, are typically removed before they are deployed in salmon pens, but this is done manually by visual inspection, which is laborious and time consuming, prompting the exploration of alternative exclusion solutions. We tested a novel automated separator designed to sort juvenile lumpfish based on sucker deformities, aiming at streamlining production in lumpfish hatcheries. The prototype, featuring two chambers and an air-driven rotating drum, was tested across five trials involving 293 juvenile lumpfish with varying sucker deformities. The separator was able to separate 78% of lumpfish with good functional suckers, and to exclude 79% of deformed individual. Sorting was swift and ~50% of lumpfish were sorted within 2 minutes. Binary logistic regression indicates that the probability of being sorted decreased significantly with the extent of sucker deformity and with lumpfish size. Around 22% of lumpfish with good functional suckers were not sorted by the separator likely due to behavioural avoidance, which warrants further study. Given the welfare and financial implications of having to exclude deformed lumpfish, the use of an automated separator as described here may contribute to increase the sustainability of lumpfish production for sea lice control in salmon farming.
Comparing Apples to Oranges: Why Self-Referenced Performance Reviews are more Effective than Peer Comparisons
Authors: Westover Jonathan
Published: August 2024

Abstract: This article argues that self-referenced performance reviews are more effective for employee motivation and development than traditional peer comparison reviews. It draws on self-determination theory to explain how comparing employees to their peers undermines the psychological needs of competence, autonomy, and relatedness, diminishing intrinsic motivation. In contrast, self-referenced reviews that focus on individuals' past performance, strengths, and areas for growth better support these needs. Evidence suggests this approach fosters engagement and productivity by promoting a growth mindset oriented toward continual self-improvement rather than competition. Additionally, qualitative case studies of organizations that shifted to a self-referenced review model found increased morale, collaboration, and business outcomes as employees concentrated on progress within their control rather than relative standings. The article concludes self-referenced reviews align with human motivation science and are more constructive for building high-performing, cohesive workforces.
JAV rytinių valstijų lietuvių tautininkų telkimasis 1941–1943 metais: nuo lietuvių amerikiečių tautininkų sąjungos iki lietuvių amerikiečių tautininkų centro
Authors: Skirius Juozas
Published: August 2024

Straipsnyje nagrinėjama JAV lietuvių tautininkų rimčiausia problema – atskirų grupių konsolidacija. Susiskaldymas kliudė ne tik visoms JAV lietuvių patriotinėms srovėms bendradarbiauti, bet ir patiems tautininkams veikti. Dėmesys kreipiamas į JAV rytų valstijų tautininkų bandymą Antrojo pasaulinio karo metais suvienyti savo jėgas, siekiant visos JAV lietuvių tautininkų srovės vienybės. Tuo tikslu Niujorke-Brukline veikusi Lietuvių amerikiečių tautininkų sąjunga (angl. Lithuanian American National Association, 1940–1943) 1943 metais perorganizuojama į Lietuvių amerikiečių tautininkų centrą (angl. Lithuanian American National Center), viliantis, kad šis centras (toliau – Centras) taps vienijimosi ašimi. Pakeitus vadovybę pavyko vietos tautininkų jėgas konsoliduoti. Tačiau ir toliau buvo prieštaravimų su JAV vakarų valstijų tautininkais, kurie nuo 1941 metų birželio 7–8 dienos telkėsi naujoje organizacijoje – Lietuvai vaduoti sąjunga (angl. Leaque for the Liberation of Lithuania) Klivlende ir rodė didesnį aktyvumą. Ir vieni, ir kiti siekė vadovauti JAV lietuvių tautinės srovės judėjimui, tai ir buvo viena iš nesusikalbėjimo priežasčių. Nors organizacijos iki pat 1949 metų liko gana savarankiškos, bet bendri Lietuvai vaduoti veiksmai buvo geranoriškai derinami. Keliama problema – istorikų dar nenagrinėtas klausimas, o panaudoti šaltiniai pirmą kartą įtraukti į tyrimą.
Immunomodulation capability and cytotoxicity activities of novel exopolysaccharides produced by a new local strain, Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis strain Iraq-Basrah 3
Authors: Hussein Khulood Abdulkareem , Niamah Alaa Kareem , Majeed Kithar Rasheed
Published: August 2024

Exopolysaccharides (EPS), metabolic products secreted by lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains, have several biomedical effects. Our study focused on the extraction and purification of EPS from a new local strain, Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis strain Iraq-Basrah 3, which was characterized by analyzing its monomer subunits, assessing its impact on cytotoxic testing, and investigating its immunostimulatory activity in vivo. The results show that the biopolymer for EPS is composed of five sugar subunits: glucose, galactose, ribose, xylose, and glucosamine. It exhibits non-cytotoxic and RBC membrane stabilization. Furthermore, EPS demonstrated immunomodulatory capability, stimulating the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 and suppressing the pro-inflammatory IL-6 in treated groups (administered orally and via intraperitoneal injection). When induced with LPS, there was no significant change in hematological parameters compared to normal groups. In contrast, there was no observed effect in the group treated with yogurt fermented with the starter B. longum subsp. infantis strain Iraq-Basrah 3 producing EPS, which showed increased IL-6 levels and hematological parameters (WBC, neutrophils, and PCV) while decreasing monocyte, lymphocyte, and PT levels. We conclude that EPS is a novel compound that can be used directly as an immunotherapy agent to treat inflammation and is immunomodulatory; furthermore, it is safe for health and nontoxic.
Screening and characterization of thermostable protease-producing bacteria isolated from slaughter site soil samples from Southern India
Authors: Punnarath Nafila Puthiya , Meppat Anjana , Subash Anitha , Ponraj Servin Wesley , Arunachalam Shobana
Published: August 2024

The current study was isolated and identified Bacillus cereus from an animal slaughter site in the South Indian state of Kerala, as a potent additive to detergents for enhancing stain removal efficacy. Identifying the isolates as B. cereus was confirmed through microbial biomass production, biochemical tests, protease-specific activity, and sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene. Following the growth condition optimization, the protease enzyme was extracted from the biomass, exhibiting a protease activity of 72.212 ± 0.235 U/mL. Calcium, magnesium, and sodium positively influenced protease activity under the tested conditions and were negatively impacted by zinc, copper, and iron. The polar solvent dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) supported enzyme activity, whereas the non-polar solvents hexane and chloroform completely inhibited it. The highest protease-specific activity of the crude extract following dialysis was 62.997 U/mg. The purified fractions of Sephadex G-100 and DEAE-Sephadex A50 anion exchange columns showed the highest enzyme-specific activity of 193.652 U/mg and 324.004 U/mg, respectively. The addition of crude protease to a generic detergent significantly enhanced its efficacy in removing fabric stains from cotton, polyester, and silk materials. Therefore, the isolated serine protease demonstrates significant potential for industrial applications.
Standardized mixture of Pluchea indica and Sauropus androgynus extract stimulates the gene expression associated with lactogenesis in rats
Authors: Wandansari Eustachia Diajeng , Syarif Rul Afiyah , Septyaningtrias Dian Eurike , Purwono Setyo , Sholikhah Eti Nurwening
Published: August 2024

Pluchea indica (P. indica) and Sauropus androgynus (S. androgynus) are medicinal plants empirically used as an herbal galactogogue, but their mechanism of action has not been elucidated at the molecular level in the form of a mixed extract. This research aimed to standardize and investigate the combined effects of P. indica leaf extract (EPI) and S. androgynus leaf extract (ESA) on the expressions of prolactin (PRL), PRL receptor (PRLR), oxytocin (OXT), and OXT receptor (OXTR) genes in pituitary and mammary glands of lactating rats. The extracts were prepared by maceration in 70% ethanol. Standardization was done by examining non-specific parameters and determining total flavonoids using spectrophotometric analysis. Twenty-four lactating rats were divided into six groups. Group I: CMC 0.5% as control, II: EPI 500 mg/kgBW, III: ESA 125 mg/kgBW, and IV–VI were given combination formula EPI-ESA 1: 125+31.25, EPI-ESA 2: 250+62.5, and EPI-ESA 3: 500+125 mg/kgBW (orally, once a day) from the 2nd–15th day after parturition. On the 16th day, experimental animals were euthanized for tissue sampling, and gene expression was measured using real-time reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The study of the non-specific parameters revealed water content, total ash, and acid-insoluble ash met criteria based on the Indonesian Herbal Pharmacopoeia. Evaluation of total flavonoids yielded 7.33% ± 0.00% and 3.84% ± 0.01% w/w for EPI and ESA, respectively. Test results showed balanced induction of all target genes was achieved when subjects received EPI-ESA 2. We concluded that EPI-ESA can potentially support lactogenesis by stimulating the expressions of PRL, PRLR, OXT, and OXTR genes.
Inhibitory effect of ink derived from Indian Loligo duvauceli squid against HIF1α induced angiogenesis
Authors: Kamyab Seyedeh Sara , Moghe Alpana S. , Nandi Shyam S. , Sawant Sonali A.
Published: August 2024

Squids are one of the most important commercial marine resources having high human consumption and market value. An Indian squid, Loligo duvauceli is a valuable species among them. They contain ink sacs which are discarded before using them for consumption. This study for the first time reports its potent ability to inhibit angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. The melanin-free extract (MFI) of squid ink was assessed for antiproliferative effect on cancer and human umbilical vein endothelial (HUVEC) cell lines. Its antiangiogenic activity was investigated in HUVEC-based tube formation and chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assays. The MFI displayed a prominent reduction in the mean vascular density of the CAM membrane, the viability of HUVEC cells, and its tube formation on the Matrigel base. Influence on the expression of angiogenesis effector genes HIF 1 α, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFR), and COX 2 in HUVEC cell line denoted prominent downregulation of HIF 1 α, VEGF, and VEGFR gene expression. Overall, the results indicated a remarkable potential of L. duvauceli ink to serve as a negative mediator of angiogenesis with probable selective HIF1α induced molecular mechanism for exerting its effect. This waste product of sea food processing industry thus presented itself as a promising natural candidate for arresting angiogenesis.
A design of expert-based development and optimization of voriconazole-loaded aspasomal gel for topical delivery
Authors: Patil Shubham Bajirao , Dandagi Panchakshari , Nadaf Rubeen Dadakalandar , Hulyalkar Sujay
Published: August 2024

The research aimed to develop a voriconazole (VRC)-loaded aspasomal gel for topical drug delivery, to minimize the dosing frequency and associated side effects. Aspasomal formulations were prepared using the thin film hydration method and their vesicle size (VS) and entrapment efficiency (%EE) were assessed. Optimization was carried out using a 32-factorial design by design expert software. The optimized batch underwent in vitro anti-fungal activity testing and morphological analysis using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. This optimized batch was then incorporated into a gel, and various parameters such as drug content, pH, viscosity, spreadability, in vitro diffusion, ex vivo permeation, and in vivo skin irritancy were evaluated. The optimized aspasomal formulation displayed a VS of 171.36 ± 2.3 nm and an %EE of 80.77% ± 1.75%. In vitro drug diffusion and ex vivo permeation studies demonstrated significant release rates of 94.09% and 48.87% after 24 and 12 hours, respectively. The optimized formulation exhibited better in vitro anti-fungal activity against Candida albicans compared to a commercially available formulation. Skin irritancy tests on rat skin showed no signs of erythema or edema, confirming non-irritation. Long-term stability analysis confirmed the formulation’s stability under cold conditions. In conclusion, VRC-loaded aspasomes present a promising alternative for treating skin fungal infections, offering controlled drug release and minimizing adverse effects, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.
Research and application of differential optical absorption two-dimensional detection system for rotorcraft unmanned aerial vehicle
Authors: Ye Fan , Li Su-Wen , Mou Fu-Sheng , Wang Song , Wang Zhi-Duo , Tang Yu-Jie , Luo Jing ,   Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Pollutant Sensitive Materials and Environmental Remediation, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei 235000, China
Published: August 2024

In order to meet the technical requirements for miniaturization, multi-angle, multi-altitude, and fast simultaneous acquisition of atmospheric pollutants, this study develops an integrated, lightweight, and cost-effective airborne differential optical absorption spectroscopy (DOAS) system. This system is designed in order to be used on a rotorcraft unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platform for monitoring atmospheric pollutants. The compositions of the hexacopter UAV platform and the airborne DOAS system are detailed in this work. The system includes a multi axis differential optical absorption spectroscopy (MAX-DOAS) spectral acquisition system, a control system, and a flight environment monitoring system. Commands are sent from a computer via serial communication to drive a gimbal, controlling the azimuth angle and elevation angle of the telescope, with a camera recording the light obstruction. The sunlight scattered by the atmosphere is collected by the telescope and transmitted via fiber optics to the spectrometer, which then transmits the data to the control computer. Additionally, the system captures data of altitude, temperature, humidity, and GPS location during flight, and filters out spectral data obtained under abnormal flight conditions. Stability studies indicate that the mean angular deviations for yaw, roll, and pitch are 0.07°, –0.13°, and –0.12° respectively, which meet the requirements for monitoring stability. Comparative experiments with a commercial ground-based DOAS system show that the correlation coefficients between the monitoring data of both systems are both greater than 0.92, confirming the reliability of the airborne system. In field flight experiments, the airborne DOAS system conducts observations at altitudes of 30 m, 60 m, and 90 m, with the elevation angle set at 0° and the azimuth angle measured every 30° from 0° to 360°. The system successfully obtains the concentration distributions of NO2, SO2, and HCHO at different azimuth angles and altitudes. The results indicate that the concentrations of these three gases decrease with altitude increasing, with higher concentrations observed in the southeast direction, indicating the presence of pollution sources in that direction. Further analysis with considering altitude changes indicates that the rate of decrease in NO2 concentration and SO2 concentration slow down with altitude increasing, while the rate of decrease in HCHO remains relatively constant. These findings indicate that this system effectively meets the technical requirements for simultaneous, rapid, multi-angle, and multi-altitude detection of atmospheric pollutants, providing essential support for the detailed monitoring of complex urban micro-environments.