bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Persistence of SARS-CoV-2-antibodies against N, S and RBD after natural infection
Authors: Jafari Mitra , Asli Samira , Moghbeli Fateme , Fesharaki Mohammad Gholami , Hajiahmadi Nazila , Mojtahedzadeh Faezeh , Jamehdar Saeid Amel , Bamdad Taravat
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected most countries in the world. Monitoring the humoral immune responses during the natural course of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and the duration of them provide useful information for the development of vaccination strategies against this virus and its emerging variants. The importance of the antibody response especially neutralizing antibodies in long-term immunity to SARS-CoV-2 is significant.
Materials and Methods: The present study is a cross-sectional study of sero-epidemiological type that has been proposed to compare the persistence of Immunoglobulin G (IgG) against N (nucleocapsid), S (spike) and RBD (receptor-binding domain) proteins in the community after the time of primary disease. A total of 652 serum samples were collected from hospital staff working in COVID wards, as well as a number of community members with different occupations, among those with positive antibody titers, 86 participated in the resampling test before vaccination.
Results: There was no association between antibody titer and disease severity (p>0.05). A significant decrease in Ab levels was observed in the paired second samples. The highest rate of decrease was related to anti-N, then anti-RBD and anti-S IgG levels, respectively. There is a significant relationship between the initial antibody titer and its reduction over time (p-value<0.05).
Conclusion: Our data revealed that humoral immunity following natural infection of SARS-CoV-2 is detectable for at least 4 months, regardless of disease severity. The most decrease in antibody titer over time was related to anti-N IgG levels.
Synthesis of new imidazole-based ionic liquids with antifungal activity against Candida albicans
Authors: Habibi Amira , Bayat Mansoura , Omidi Behinb , Ezabadi Ali , Mortazavi Pejmana
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: Candida albicans cause a problematic condition in immunocompromised patients that could not be treated quickly due to the resistant behavior of microorganisms. This study aimed to investigate the effect of a novel ionic liquid (IL) as a new drug on C. albicans strains.
Materials and Methods: Seven newly binary ionic liquids mixtures were synthesized, and among them, ([prollinium chlo- ride] [1-methylimidazolium 3-sulfonate] ([pro-HCl][MImS]) was selected and characterized by 1HNMR, 13C NMR, and FT-IR methods. Samples from patients (n=50) with candidiasis were collected and identified through culture media. ERG11 gene overexpression was related to resistance against azole-bearing drugs. The antibiogram, well diffusion assay, MICs, and MFCs tests were operated. PCR and Real-time evaluated the expression of the ERG11 gene, and the rate of cell death was detected using Flow Cytometry.
Results: Our data manifested that this novel IL (Ionic Liquid) can inhibit C. albican's growth, reduce the expression of ERG11 and increase dead cells.
Conclusion: The newly synthesized IL had an inhibiting effect on the growth of the C. albicans strains and may be used as an alternative candidate for novel drug design.
Pharmaceutical Exports of Iran in OIC Region and Entering International Markets
Authors: Akhtarshenas Setareh , Yasini Hoda , Rastegar Hossein
Published: November 2023

Background: There are various pharmaceutical companies in Iran with high potential. Due to the lack of business with international markets for exports, Iranian pharmaceutical products are mostly traded in domestic markets. Despite numerous studies on pharmaceutical exports in the literature, the performance of Iran in pharmaceutical exports to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), remains yet to be evaluated. The novelty of the present work lies in filling this research gap and helping develop policies to expand pharmaceutical exports of Iran.
Materials and Methods: Analysis of results on the current performance of Iranian pharmaceutical exports indicated groups of factors. The most significant factors were product quality and government policies according to questionnaire survey.
Results: Analysis of results on the current performance of Iranian pharmaceutical exports indicated groups of factors. The most significant factors were product quality and government policies according to questionnaire survey.
Conclusion: It was concluded that supervision regulations of pharmaceutical exports were not developed to motivate the expansion of exports. Supervision and control of Iranian pharmaceutical industries would enhance the quality of pharmaceutical products and strongly contribute to the expansion of pharmaceutical exports. It was also found that the quality improvement of pharmaceutical products was a key factor in increasing pharmaceutical exports to international markets.
Affordability After Subsidy Shift from Parallel Exchange Rate to Insurance: a Retrospective Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Abbasian Hadi , Zartab Saman
Published: November 2023

Background: Due to the imposition of an embargo, Iran adopted a policy of a parallel exchange rate. After three years, the advantages and disadvantages of this policy were revealed empirically. Therefore, the government decided to shift the subsidy to insurance instead of the exchange rate. However, as a result of this plan, the price of medicine rose sharply, and affordability decreased for some sections of society who were not covered by any insurance. This study evaluated the impact of this policy on the affordability of essential medicines listed by the WHO.
Materials and Methods: The impact of this plan on the affordability of essential medicines was evaluated using the WHO recommended method. A cross-sectional study was conducted to measure the affordability of the national essential medicines list before and after the implementation of the subsidy shift from exchange rate to insurance.
Results: Despite the benefits of this plan, 17 items in the essential medicine list became unaffordable. The affordability of essential medicines decreased, particularly for uninsured individuals.
Conclusion: More efforts should be made to cover uninsured people to preserve their access to essential medicines. Although the shift from parallel exchange rate to insurance had several benefits, such as reducing corruption and reverse smuggling, it also decreased the affordability of essential medicines, particula rly for uninsured individuals. Therefore, policymakers should consider implementing measures to ensure that essential medicines remain affordable and accessible to all members of society.
Immunohistochemical Study of MDM2 Expression in Odontogenic Keratocyst andDentigerous Cyst
Authors: Jafari Najmeh , Tabatabaei Seyed Hoseein , Kerdegari Fatemeh
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Dentigerous cyst and odontogenic keratocyst (OKC) are two of the most common developmental odontogenic cysts. Different developmental mechanism and biological behavior of OKC is due to unknown factors inherent in the epithelium or enzymatic activity in the wall. P53 plays a role in determining the pathways for DNA repair، apoptosis، angiogenesis and genomic stability and is negatively confronted with the MDM2 oncoprotein. Aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of MDM2 as an important indicator of proliferation and cell cycle regulation in OKC and dentigerous cyst.
Methods: In this descriptive-cross-sectional study، MDM2 expression in the suprabasal and basal epithelium regions of 15 samples from each of the dentigerous cysts and OKC was assessed using immunohistochemistry. Finally، the data were entered into the SPSS16 software and analyzed using the t-test.
Results: MDM2 expression in the suprabasal and basal epithelium regions in OKC was higher than dentigerous cyst، but there was not seen a statically significant difference (P: 0.551)، (P: 0.825). The expression level of this marker in both groups in the suprabasal region was significantly higher than the basal region (P: 0.005)، (P: 0.004).
Conclusion: Higher expression of MDM2 in OKC، especially in the suprabasal areas، could indicate a secondary role of this protein in the pathogenesis، growth and spread of this cyst and the proliferation، apoptosis and differentiation processes confirm the neoplastic nature and specific biological behavior of this lesion.
Navezovanje sočutnega stika z mladimi in njihovimi skrbniki po izgubi bližnjega
Authors: Majerič Sabina
Published: November 2023

Pediatrične ambulante in ambulante družinske medicine so za mnoge mlade, ki se spoprijemajo z izgubo bližnjega, in njihove skrbnike prvi prostor, kjer iščejo oporo po izgubi bližnjega, čeprav se mnogi zdravniki še vedno ne počutijo dovolj pripravljeni na pogovor z žalujočimi in velikokrat ne vedo, kako naj bi se ob tem ustrezno odzvali. S tem prispevkom želimo na osnovi mednarodnih raziskav zdravnike opolnomočiti z osnovnimi usmeritvami za sočutno vodenje in pripravo na individualne in skupne pogovore na temo izgube z žalujočimi, pri čemer največ pozornosti posvečamo mladostnikom in njihovim skrbnikom kot eni izmed ranljivejših in mnogokrat spregledanih skupin. Prispevek končujemo z izpostavitvijo vloge pediatrov in družinskih zdravnikov pri zagotavljanju celostne opore žalujočim znotraj slovenskega zdravstvenega sistema zdaj in v prihodnosti.
Pravica mladostnika do samoodločanja in vloga zdravnika
Authors: Grošelj Urh
Published: November 2023

Obdobje med otroštvom in odraslostjo (WHO ga opredeljuje od 10. do 19. leta starosti) je obdobje hitre telesne, kognitivne in psihosocialne rasti, kar v pomembni meri vpliva na počutje, razmišljanje, odločanje in interakcijo s svetom okrog mladostnika (mladostnice). Otroci in mladostniki so ranljiva skupina – potrebujejo drugačen način odločanja kot odrasli; njihova dobrobit mora biti zaščitena bolj kot običajno. Otroci (mladostniki) imajo pravico sodelovati pri odločanju o ključnih vidikih svojega življenja, tudi pri odločanju o zdravstveni obravnavi. Imajo naraščajočo zmožnost odločanja in sodelovanja – njihova stališča se obravnavajo v luči njihove starosti in zrelosti. Po zakonodaji pridobijo (ob presoji zdravnika) mladostniki uradno zmožnost odločanja po 15. letu starosti. Pediater oz. pediatrinja mora biti zagovornik mladostnika: odločanje mora biti vedno v dobrobit otroka (mladostnika).
“How Do You Know Who You Are?”: Marjorie Prime on Envisioning Humanity Through the Faculty of AI-Powered Memory as Reconstructive Tissue
Authors: Bendrat Anna
Published: November 2023

In reference to the theme of the issue devoted to literary extremities, Jordan Harrison’s play Marjorie Prime raises thought-provoking questions about the potential benefits and drawbacks of advanced AI technology by exploring the nature of memory, identity, and mortality, as well as the ethical implications of creating artificial intelligence that can mimic human behavior and emotions. This article argues that the play positions its AI character—a computerized hologram of Marjorie’s late husband Walter—at the intersection of two divergent perspectives on memory reactivation enhanced by AI-powered technology. While, on the one hand, the humanoid is seen as a potent tool which helps to reduce the cognitive impairment caused by dementia, on the other hand, there is a concern that technological interventions may trigger episodic memory change, testifying to the plastic, and thus reconstructive, character of this foundational human faculty. The article seeks to negotiate the interplay of benefits and dangers of technology-assisted memory reactivation by exploring two divergent ideas represented by Marjorie’s daughter Tess and her son-in-law Jon regarding what would comfort their mother, and, ultimately, their differing ways of comforting each other and themselves individually as the carers of an elderly person. In analyzing how creative and destructive forces exhibited by AI-powered digital tools cross-inhabit the declining memory inflicted by dementia, the article unpacks both the vast potential and the limits of technology while attempting to answer uncomfortable questions about the essence of human existence posed by aging and dementia.
Waves of Pixels and Word-generated Algorithms: Drone Poetry as a Collaborative Practice between Machine and Human in Waveform by Richard A. Carter
Authors: Ostalska Katarzyna
Published: November 2023

The following article explores the creative collaborative practices in digital poetry between more-than-human agents. Richard A. Carter’s artistic project Waveform (2017–) makes one reconsider the ways in which multimodal and web-based encounters of image, word, sound and movement, and, in the case of Carter’s airborne drone, also the political and military, redefine “a literary text” via nonhuman extended perception. Drone-generated poetry challenges a human-centered (literary) perspective, raising questions about AI’s creativity and code’s generative and aesthetic, and not only functional, potential. The article, drawing upon Raichlen, introduces a comparative platform of waves’ mechanics to render the complexity of multimedial digital poetic writing. The focal analytical material provided by Carter results from the (human, machine) vision (of the moving waves) translated into words, generated by the drone, and edited by the human. The article studies the creative process in which the collaboration between more-than-human entities, as its outcome, produces poetic work of artistic value and literary merit.
Dialogic, but Monologic: Toxic Masculinity Meets #MeToo in Teddy Wayne’s Campus Novel Loner
Authors: Kowal Ewa
Published: November 2023

Teddy Wayne’s 2016 Loner tells the story of a Harvard freshman’s sexual obsession with a fellow student, leading to stalking and attempted rape. On a deeper level, the campus novel can be interpreted as a critique of wider processes taking place in American academia and generally in the US: the mainstreaming of the so-called “woke” movement and the growing impact of “political correctness.” The novel also reflects on class inequality, privilege, gender politics, the ongoing crisis of white (heterosexual) masculinity, toxic masculinity, and online “incel culture.” The present paper will analyze the problematic “dialogic, but monologic” nature of the book’s unreliable narrative addressing the above problems. The paper’s goal will be to read Loner in light of the #MeToo movement as an illustration of the current stage of the now decades-long reckoning with rape culture, and with patriarchy.
Envisioning the Ecological Future: Three Perspectives off the Beaten Track
Authors: Arnsperger Christian , Soltysik Monnet Agnieszka
Published: November 2023

With few truly hopeful visions currently emerging from mainstream academia or from established science concerning humanity’s collective environmental outlook, it might be necessary to go off the beaten track in order to see how we can maintain a sense of hope while realistically preparing for the gradual erosion of the world as we know it, therefore also leaving some psychological and emotional room for a sense of the tragic. This essay considers three lesser-known but, in our eyes, important contemporary perspectives on the ecological future: Ernest Callenbach’s “ecotopia,” John Michael Greer’s “catabolic descent” and William deBuys’s “hospice for Earth”—all three of which aim to challenge the currently still dominant focus on the binary of “progress or apocalypse” that flows from modern thought. We critically examine these visions and argue that, when combined, they offer an approach to the ecological future that is both more realistic and more inspiring. In essence, Callenbach’s ecotopian vision still has significant traction—and an almost “erotic” appeal—today, but needs to be adapted to contemporary ecological realities through Greer’s and deBuys’s insights into decline, grief and the tragic.
Household Saving in Crisis – Literature Review
Authors: Korzeniowska Anna
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this article is to compare the focus of researchers and the saving behavior of households in different types of crises within the scope of the financial crisis of 2008 and the pandemic crisis.
The research focused on the literature review of publications in the WoS bibliographic database concentrated on saving and personal finance with the addition of a crisis or pandemic. 276 publications in the WoS category of Economics were identified. Full and fractional clustering with VOS Viewer was applied.
It has been found that there are differences in the behavior of households and in the focus of researchers concerning analyzed terms between the pandemic and other crises. In the case of the financial crisis of 2008, a broader approach prevailed, considering the situation of the financial market and its liquidity, but also inequalities and imbalances at the individual, national and international levels. When it comes to the pandemic, the term savings had the most associations with problems related to the situation of an individual household. Attention was paid to financial security, income, wealth, and demand generated by the household.
Ane Mona y Hulda de Jenny Jordahl: análisis desde una didáctica feminista en la literatura infantil
Authors: Hernández Quintana Blanca
Published: November 2023

El presente artículo analiza y reflexiona sobre el cuento infantil Ane Mona y Hulda de Jenny Jordahl (2020), a partir de la aplicación de una didáctica feminista y de la hermenéutica propuestas por la teoría literaria feminista. Este enfoque permite apreciar la presencia de un imaginario alternativo al heterocentrismo que visibiliza el lesbianismo. Por esto, una ampliación de los corpus de lectura permite reparar en modos de vida acallados, como el lesbianismo, y así cuestionar el discurso heterocéntrico imperante. En el espacio de la didáctica feminista, el diálogo y la reflexión componen el método; en complemento, la lectura es el marco a través del cual se hace posible la significación. Se concluye que, aunque se parte de una heterosexualidad obligatoria, producto de un orden social homologado y reproducido por la escuela y la literatura, el cuento ofrece las herramientas necesarias para transformar el universo experiencial y visibilizar el lesbianismo como una orientación natural desde edades tempranas.
Hacia una pedagogía de lo incierto: contribuciones para una nueva didáctica de la poesía
Authors: Munita Felipe
Published: November 2023

El presente artículo ofrece una reflexión personal del autor acerca de la educación poética, un campo todavía poco desarrollado en la didáctica de la literatura. El ensayo tiene un enfoque analítico e interpretativo sobre los principales problemas y oportunidades de la didáctica de la poesía. El texto se desarrolla a partir de tres grandes focos: la problematización del objeto de la educación poética (el lenguaje poético en sí y los procesos de apropiación de ese lenguaje), la visualización de ciertas dificultades que tensionan la relación de los docentes y mediadores con la poesía, y la observación de diversas formas de apropiación de la poesía por parte de las y los estudiantes. A partir de lo anterior, se propone la siguiente contribución al campo disciplinar: pensar la educación poética como una pedagogía de lo incierto.
Concerns, Contributions, and Challenges of Critical Pedagogies in ELT: A Literature Review
Authors: Vanegas Garzón Sindy Lissette , Bedoya Ríos Nohemy Marcela
Published: November 2023

Critical pedagogies have been researched in many knowledge areas, particularly in social sciences. However, in the field of English language teaching, pedagogical and didactic models that implement critical perspectives are scarce. This review attempts to characterize trends of discussion addressed in the scientific literature on critical pedagogies in the teaching of English from 2011 to February 2023. For this, 55 articles available in Scopus, Eric, and Scielo databases were analysed. Four categories were identified: 1) Critical pedagogical practices in ELT, 2) Analysis on the teacher role and education, 3) Principal concerns which yield the introduction of critical pedagogies to ELT field, and 4) Limitations and challenges for critical pedagogies in ELT. This paper stresses the need to deepen and expand research in the field of ELT around the category of critical pedagogies as a possibility to contribute to the English teaching practices, mainly when included in the teachers’ education processes.
Trait emotional intelligence in mothers of children with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Marisavljević Maša
Published: November 2023

Studies that point to the difficulties in terms of communication, social skills, reading and interpreting emotions in parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as well as those regarding the protective function of trait emotional intelligence (TEI), are not complemented by studies directly comparing TEI of caregivers of children with ASD and those of neurotypical children. The aim of this study was to examine differences in TEI between mothers of children with ASD and mothers of children of typical development, as well as the effect of different sociodemographic factors on maternal TEI. Participants were 156 mothers, divided into two groups: 1) mothers of children with ASD (ASD group) (N = 78) and 2) mothers of neurotypical children (control group) (N = 78). Participants completed the Serbian adaptation of the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire (TEIQue), short form, and answered various questions about their own and their children’s sociodemographic characteristics. Results suggest equivalence of global and factor-level TEIQue scores. Inspection of facet-level differences revealed higher scores on Stress management, and lower scores on Assertiveness in the ASD group compared to controls. Maternal age was not related to their TEI, while Well-being and Optimism of mothers decreased with increasing of ASD child`s age. Mothers with lower education had significantly lower TEI scores on several factors and facets regardless of the child’s ASD status. Obtained findings significantly contribute to the knowledge of perceived emotional self-efficacy in mothers of children with ASD which could elicit additional research and various mental health professional programs aimed at this vulnerable population.
Ungkapan Kritik dalam Ranah Keluarga Masyarakat Madura di Besuki Raya
Authors: Sofyan Akhmad , Hidayatullah Panakajaya , Badrudin Ali
Published: November 2023

Penelitan ini bertujuan mengurai fenomena penggunaan ungkapan kritik dalam ranah keluarga masyarakat Madura di Besuki Raya. Fokus penelitian ini mengungkap tentang (1) bentuk dan model kritik yang digunakan, (2) konteks bagaimana kritik tersebut diproduksi di masyarakat, dan (3) formulasi pemilihan bentuk kritik di masyarakat. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode etnografi komunikasi yang dipadukan dengan teknik simak. Temuan dalam penelitian ini menghasilkan (1) bentuk dan model kritik yang digunakan yakni (a) kritik langsung, (b) kritik menggunakan orang ketiga, (c) kritik menggunakan penanda bunyi, dan (d) kritik menggunakan bahasa metafora; (2) kritik disampaikan dalam beberapa konteks komunikasi dalam ranah keluarga, seperti hubungan orang tua kepada anak, mertua kepada menantu, menantu kepada mertua, istri kepada suami, suami kepada istri, kakek kepada cucu, dan cucu kepada nenek; (3) dalam formulasi pemilihan bentuk kritik di masyarkat Madura dapat dipetakan bahwa ada beberapa kritik yang dapat diterima seperti (a) kritik langsung yang disampaikan dengan pemilihan diksi kalimat yang baik, intonasi yang halus, dan disampaikan secara privat, (b) melalui orang ketiga, (c) penanda bunyi, dan (d) bahasa metafora (kiasan). Adapun bentuk kritik yang dihindari adalah bentuk kritik langsung yang disampaikan secara kasar (menggunakan kalimat yang menyinggung perasan) dan disampaikan secara di depan publik.
The Bugis Culture in Marriage Proposal Communication
Authors: Juanda Juanda , Azis Azis
Published: November 2023

The aim of this study is to investigate the language used in the marriage proposal among the Bugis ethnic group. This research adopts a descriptive qualitative approach. The data was obtained through participant observation and recording techniques of oral dialogues among the Bugis Wajo community in South Sulawesi. The data is presented in the form of a narrative of the proposal process recorded by the authors. Data collection involved recording the speech of the participants, which was then transcribed. The results were analyzed using the Dell Hymes communication ethnographic approach. The findings indicate that the proposal process was conducted formally, with a group of seven men making the proposal. The proposal was accepted and proceeded to the wedding procession with mappasiarekeng, which involves delivering the dowry money and determining the wedding day. The proposal was delivered via delivering the dowry money and determining the wedding day. The proposal was delivered via elong in a serious tone using fixed spoken language that cannot be interrupted, and only spokespersons designated by the proposer, the man and the woman being proposed to, spoke. The speech belongs to the madduta genre.
Spices, Colonialism, and the Growth of New Economic Centers on the East Coast of East Sulawesi, 1620s—1920s
Authors: Rabani La Ode , Husain Sarkawi B. , Khusyairi Johny Alfian
Published: November 2023

This study focuses on the East Coast of Sulawesi, which includes parts of the mainland and the eastern coast of Sulawesi Island. The area comprises parts of Central Sulawesi
 
and Southeast Sulawesi, as well as surrounding islands such as Buton, Muna, Menui, Salabangka, and Siompu. The islands are significant in supporting economic activities along the spice route strip of the eastern coast of Sulawesi Island. The study explores the spice trade effect on the region in various aspects such as political, economic, social, cultural, and others. The research uses a historical method that focuses on relevant documents by conducting criticisms, interpretations, and analyses. The study found that spices that grow endemically and distinctly (exotic) in the archipelago (Banda Islands) have a long-lasting impact and cover various aspects. Spices had driven other nations to reach, exploit, and trade them to gain wealth and glory. For this reason, conflicts and wars have colored the history of spices that led to the practice of colonialism and hegemony. Colonial hegemony did not always have negative implications but also had essential effects on the growth of the region around the network of spice production centers as new economic centers on the East Coast of Sulawesi. The encounter between the indigenous people and other nations through the spice trade network had a significant positive impact, which Sartono Kartodirjo called positive integration.
Analysis of the People’s Needs for Museum Tourism as Cultural Expressions and Freedom to Learn in the Post-Pandemic Era
Authors: Yuliantri Rhoma Dwi Aria , Sudarmadi Tular , Suwignyo Agus
Published: November 2023

The Covid-19 pandemic has impacted people’s lives, including the tourism and education sectors such as tours in museums. This study aims to answer three questions (1) How high is the priority of the community's needs for post-pandemic museum tourism? (2) What are the museum tourism needs in terms of museum facilities, cultural activities and independent learning programs? (3) What are the public opinions on the tourism program that should be developed by the museum to respond to the priority needs of museum tourism after the pandemic? This research was conducted using quantitative methods with descriptive statistical calculations. The results of the study showed that most of the respondents strongly agreed (79.13%) and agreed (18.26%) that museum visits should be based on the spirit of finding alternative places to learn and seek new knowledge. Respondents decided to visit a museum firstly due to the programs offered by the museum. Regarding museums which employed freedom to learn program, respondents agreed (53.04%) if museums promoted various activities as learning arenas based on the government programs. Respondents’ expectations of post-pandemic museums lead to the concept of “museums for community.” This means that museum management and the development of cultural creations potential and economic activities by museums are welcomed with high interest if the people or community are involved. It is suggested that museum managements (1) organize cultural performance acitivities as part of the promotion for museum visits, and (2) engage with local communities in the creation and implementation of the activities.
The Hilton hotels in the midst of the UAE 2071 centennial plan: Redesigning the UAE on the path of innovation and international tourism
Authors: Russo Eduardo , Figueira Ariane Roder , Mataruna-dos Santos Leonardo José
Published: November 2023

Motivated by the strategy of economic diversification and the consequent transformations in the tourism and hospitality sector of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) mainly from implementing a long-term vision through the UAE Centennial Plan 2071, the case aims to put students in the role of Jan Schneider, president of the Hilton Hotels for the Middle East and Africa, so that they can propose an expansion strategy for the group in the country and region. In this context, some strategic challenges related to institutional uncertainties and the possible increase in market competitiveness need to be addressed. The case was designed for undergraduate and graduate students of business administration and hotel management who want to discuss topics such as entry strategies and international expansion of hotel ventures.
A ESTÉTICA DA LUTA FRETE A ÉTICA DA MORTE
Authors: Silva Moisés Pereira , Oliveira Jôyara Maria Silva de
Published: November 2023

A história da América Latina é marcada pelo embate entre forças conservadoras, que pretendem parar o tempo das mudanças, e a resistência campesina, negra, indígena e de outros grupos economicamente minoritários que, com suor, alegria e sangue, vão acelerando a mudança. Esse artigo socializa resultado de estudo que, a partir de pesquisa documental, bibliográfica e da memória, problematiza as nuances de uma experiência brasileira, o conflito agrário na região do Bico do Papagaio entre as décadas de 1970 e 1980 a partir do trabalho político-pastoral do Padre Josimo, como expressão desse embate de projetos.
Determinants of Hybrid Investor Behavior: Selecting Stock in The Islamic Capital Market with Maqasid of Sharia as Moderation
Authors: Jalari Jalari , Anwar Syamsul , Ardiansyah Misnen
Published: November 2023

The focal point of this research is the hybrid investor behavior and maqaṣid of sharia. Understanding maqaṣid of sharia is the right solution to negative public perceptions of investment in the Islamic capital market. Hybrid investor behavior comprises two variables: perceived risk and behavioral hybrid, which lead to different results. This study aims to find new theories about the behavior of hybrid investors towards stock options with maqaṣid of sharia as a moderating variable to strengthen scientific thinking to conceptually and contextually identify, evaluate, and execute the existing problems in choosing sharia stocks. This was an explanatory research study with a nonexperimental research design. This study used a quantitative method, and data were collected through questionnaires distributed to hybrid investors in Surakarta areas: Surakarta, Boyolali, Klaten, Sukoharjo, Wonogiri, Karanganyar, and Sragen. It involved 130 investors as research participants. The data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling to obtain a model that explains the relationship between the variables on Sharia stock options. This research revealed that the perception of risk has a negative and significant effect on the choice of Islamic stocks. Hybrid behavior has a positive and significant effect on the choice of Islamic stocks. Maqaṣid sharia moderates the effect of risk perception on sharia stock options and does not moderate the effect of hybrid behavior on the choice of sharia stocks.
Fall and Rise: Disentangling Cycle Life Trends in Atmospheric Plasma-Synthesized FeOOH/PANI Composite for Conversion Anodes in Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Beletskii Evgenii V. , Volkov Alexey I. , Kharisova Ksenia A. , Glumov Oleg V. , Kamarou Maksim A. , Lukyanov Daniil A. , Levin Oleg V.
Published: November 2023

Various iron oxides have been proven to be promising anode materials for metal-ion batteries due to their natural abundance, high theoretical capacity, ease of preparation, and environmental friendliness. However, the synthesis of iron oxide-based composites requires complex approaches, especially when it comes to composites with intrinsically conductive polymers. In this work we propose a one-step microplasma synthesis of a polyaniline-coated urchin-like FeOOH nanoparticles (FeOOH/PANI) for application as anode in lithium-ion batteries. The material shows excellent electrochemical characteristics, providing initial capacity of ca. 1600 mA∙h∙g−1 at 0.05 A∙g−1 and 900 mA∙g−1 at 1.2 A∙g−1. Further cycling lead to capacity decrease to 150 mA∙h∙g−1 by the 60th cycles, followed by a recovery that maintained the capacity at 767 mA∙h∙g−1 after 2000 cycles at 1.2 A∙g−1 and restored full initial capacity of 1600 mA∙h∙g−1 at low current density of 0.05 A∙g−1. Electrochemical milling of the material caused such interesting behavior of the material, and we confirmed this phenomenon by a combination of physico-chemical and electrochemical techniques. The anodes also exhibit high performance in a full cell with NMC532. NMC532//FeOOH/PANI full cell provided energy density of 224 Wh∙kg−1 which is comparable to the reference cell with graphite anode (264 Wh∙kg−1).
Effect of Acute Thermal Stress Exposure on Physiological Traits of the Mediterranean Sponge Chondrilla nucula: Implications for Climate Change
Authors: Bosch-Belmar Mar , Milanese Martina , Sarà Antonio , Mobilia Valeria , Sarà Gianluca
Published: November 2023

As a result of climate change, the Mediterranean Sea has been exposed to an increase in frequency and intensity of marine heat waves in the last decades, some of which caused mass mortality events of benthic invertebrates, including sponges. Sponges are an important component of benthic ecosystems and can be the dominant group in some rocky shallow-water areas in the Mediterranean Sea. In this study, we exposed the common shallow-water Mediterranean sponge Chondrilla nucula (Demospongiae: Chondrillidae) to six different temperatures for 24 h, ranging from temperatures experienced in the field during the year (15, 19, 22, 26, 28 °C) and above normal temperatures (32 °C) and metabolic (respiration rate) and behavioural (clearance rate) were measured. Both respiration and clearance rates were affected by temperature. Respiration rates increased at higher temperatures but were similar between 26 and 32 °C treatments. Clearance rates decreased at temperatures > 26 °C, indicating a drop in food intake that was not reflected by respiration rates. This decline in feeding, while maintaining high respiration rates, may indicate a negative energy balance that could affect this species under chronic or repeated thermal stress exposure. C. nucula will probably be a vulnerable species under climate change conditions, affecting its metabolic performance, ecological functioning and the ecosystem services it provides.
Discrepancies between Genetic and Visual Coat Color Assignment in Horse
Authors: Mura Maria Consuelo , Carcangiu Vincenzo , Cosso Giovanni , Columbano Nicolò , Sanna Passino Eraldo , Luridiana Sebastiano
Published: November 2023

This study genetically identified the coat color in a small wild horses’ population and compared the correspondence with the visual coat color registrations. Individual DNA from 90 Sarcidano horses was used for the genetic assignment of the coat color, to explore the correspondence with the individual form containing phenotypical traits. By genotyping and sequencing analyses of the MC1R exon 1 and ASIP exon 3, e real image of the coat color distribution in this population has been obtained. Surprisingly, once we compared the genetic results with the individual forms reporting the phenotypic data for each subject, a certain degree of non-correspondence between the phenotypic and genetic data, in relation to coat color emerged. Genetic results showed a clear prevalence of the Chestnuts (n=58), a quite large number of Blacks (n=28) and a very small presence of Bays (n=4), whereas phenotypic distribution resulted in 38 Chestnuts, 40 Bays, only 2 Blacks, and 10 Greys (without the possibility of recognizing the true color they carried). Chestnut resulted a very representative coat color, while many horses visually identified as Bays, were genetically Blacks. This discrepancy suggests the importance of a sure coat color identification to ensure an adequate features registration, reliable also to predict the offspring’s coat color.
Multiscale and Multitemporal Remote Sensing for Neolithic Settlement Detection and Protection – Case of Gorjani, Croatia
Authors: Sosic Klindzic Rajna , Šiljeg Bartul , Kalafatić Hrvoje
Published: November 2023

The decade of research concentrating on the area of Easter Slavonia revealed abundance of large on complex late Neolithic sites. It changed profoundly how we perceive late Neolithic settlement and space size and organization. As s first step in particular site detection we mostly conducted aerial reconnaissance and satellite image analysis but also data from the field such as excavation. On detected potential sites we conducted intensive field surveys and confirmed the attribution to the late Neolithic by surface finds. On those confirmed sites in the vicinity of Đakovo, Croatia, magnetic survey was conducted on 5 sites so far and the results confirmed presence of large scale late Neolithic settlements with complex spatial organization and enclosure(s). Most complex remains so far is site Gorjani Kremenjača and Topole which we present in this paper where a remains of one or two settlements covers the area of 70 hectares and is currently in the process of formal protection as a cultural landscape by the Ministry of Culture and Media of the Republic of Croatia. Special focus of the paper is the application of remote sensing in detection, archaeological confirmation and protection of the position Gorjani Topole.
Word Vectors for Criticism of a Korean Film - 'Decision to Leave' by Chanwook Park
Authors: Ko Kwangho , Paik Juryon
Published: November 2023

This research presents a novel approach to film analysis, leveraging word vectors to objectively evaluate movie critiques. Focusing on Director Chanwook Park’s award-winning film, ’Decision to Leave’, the study employs word vectors derived from the movie’s script of Korean text. Traditional critiques often emphasize contrasting elements and themes, but their subjective nature poses challenges in objective validation. To address this, we trained a language model using LSTM on the film’s script, obtaining word vectors that capture the essence of the narrative. These vectors were then used to perform various text analyses, including similarity and analogy operation for the keywords suggested by the critiques. By comparing the semantic relationships in the critiques with those derived from the word vectors, we could objectively validate the critiques’ assertions. Furthermore, we visualized the word vectors in a two-dimensional space, confirming the spatial relationships of key terms highlighted in critiques. The study underscores the potential of word vectors in providing a more objective lens for film analysis, bridging the gap between traditional film criticism and data-driven insights.
Elucidating Common Fallacies and Misconceptions Around LLMs
Authors: Khan Muhammad Al-Zafar , Innan Nouhaila , Hammujuddy Jahvaid
Published: November 2023

This paper discusses some of the most common misconceptions about large language models (LLMs), including the belief that they are sentient or conscious, that they are always accurate, and that they can replace human creativity. The paper also proposes a strategy for overcoming these misbeliefs, which involves educating the public about the capabilities and limitations of LLMs, developing guidelines for the responsible use of LLMs, and conducting more research to understand the potential impact of LLMs on society.
Analytical Solution of the SIR-Model for the Not Too Late Temporal Evolution of Epidemics for General Time-Dependent Recovery and Infection Rates
Authors: Schlickeiser Reinhard , Kröger Martin
Published: November 2023

The dynamical equations of the susceptible-infected-recovered/removed (SIR) epidemics model play an important role to predict and/or analyze the temporal evolution of epidemics outbreaks. Crucial input quantities are the time-dependent infection ($a(t)$) and recovery ($\mu (t)$) rates regulating the transitions between the compartments $S\to I$ and $I\to R$, respectively. Accurate analytical approximations for the temporal dependence of the rate of new infections $\dot{J}(t)=a(t)S(t)I(t)$ and the corresponding cumulative fraction of new infections $J(t)=J(t_0)+\int_{t_0}^tdx\dot{J}(x)$ are available in the literature for either stationary infection and recovery rates and for a stationary value of the ratio $k(t)=\mu (t)/a(t)$. Here a new and original accurate analytical approximation is derived for general, arbitrary and different temporal dependencies of the infection and recovery rates which is valid for not too late times after the start of the infection when the cumulative fraction $J(t)\ll 1$ is much less than unity. The comparison of the analytical approximation with the exact numerical solution of the SIR-equations for different illustrative examples proves the accuracy of the analytical approach.
Switching from Nusinersen to Risdiplam: Croatian Real-World Experience on Effectiveness and Safety
Authors: Belančić Andrej , Strbad Tea , Kučan Štiglić Marta , Vitezić Dinko
Published: November 2023

(1) Background: Aim was to investigate real-world effectiveness (hypothesizing non-inferiority) and safety profile of risdiplam in paediatric and adult nusinersen-risdiplam spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) switch cohort. (2) Methods: A retrospective and anonymous collection of relevant demographic and clinical data for all Croatian SMA patients switched from nusinersen to risdiplam up to September 2023 (reimbursed by Croatian Health Insurance Fund – CHIF) was performed using CHIF database and associated reimbursement documentation. Patients were included in effectiveness and safety analysis if they met the following inclusion criteria: i) risdiplam reimbursed by CHIF; ii) patient received at least 6 doses of nusinersen before switch to risdiplam; iii) no relevant pause between the latter disease modifying drugs (DMDs); iv) availability of all prespecified studied data and parameters. (3) Results: 17 patients met inclusion criteria [58.9% female; median age 12.75 (3.0-44.5) yr.]. In our ‘switch’ cohort, we have demonstrated a non-inferiority of risdiplam to nusinersen, in SMA 1 (+1.0 in CHOP INTEND; p=0.067), SMA 3p (+0.7 in HFMSE; p=0.897) and SMA 3a (+0.8 in RHS; p=0.463) subpopulations, during a one-year follow-up period. There were no reports on respiratory function worsening, feeding worsening, and no lethal events. No new safety concerns were identified, except of the weight gain that arose as a new potential adverse drug reaction ‘signal’ in two patients. (4) Conclusions: We have reported a pivotal real-world findings on switching SMA patients from nusinersen to risdiplam and demonstrated its effectiveness (non-inferiority), safety and tolerability in a heterogenous paediatric and adult ‘switch’ cohort, which will further increase the quality and standards of care as well as safety of a notable portion of SMA patients; especially for those who demand switch from nusinersen to other DMDs from clinical or personal reasons.
Exploring Genetic Diversity in Romanian Lycium Species: A Comparative Study of Wild and Cultivated Genotypes
Authors: Ciceoi Roxana , Asănică Adrian , Luchian Vasilica , Iordăchescu Mihaela
Published: November 2023

Goji berries, long valued in Chinese medicine and cuisine for their wide range of medicinal benefits, are considered a 'superfruit' and functional food. Out of the nearly 100 Lycium species known for their genetic diversity, L. barbarum and L. chinense currently dominate the market. Due to increasing market demand and concerns about food safety and sustainability, Europe and the Americas are expanding the local goji berry production, using as starting material plants originated from China. European breeding programs are focusing on Lycium to develop varieties adapted to local conditions, especially in response to climate change. By 2023, Romania registered seven goji berry varieties, both from L. barbarum and L. chinense species, without incorporating local germplasm. Advanced genomic studies, including NGS sequencing of five cultivated and three wild goji berry plant genomes, have been conducted to analyse their genetic variation, with a particular focus on the BODYGUARD 3 and 4 genes. This research uncovered significant differences between cultivated and wild genotypes, both in the entire genome and specifically in the BODYGUARD genes, providing crucial insights for goji berry breeders to support the development of goji berry cultivation in Romania.
Scattering of Ultrashort X-ray Pulses from Oriented NV Centers in the Diamond Structure
Authors: Makarov Dmitry , Eseev Marat , Gusarevich Eugeny , Matveev Viktor , Makarova Ksenia , Borisov Mark
Published: November 2023

It is well known that the basis of diffraction analysis of matter is scattering, including scattering of ultrashort laser pulses. In the theory of scattering of ultrashort pulses the pulse duration parameter is usually not taken into account, which leads to some error. This error may be more significant than the considered effects in the scattering of the pulse on the studied structure. In this paper it is shown that the pulse duration parameter should be taken into account when scattering X-ray pulses on oriented diamonds with NV-centers. It is shown that the scattering spectra can be used to judge the orientation of NV centers in the diamond structure. The obtained results may be very different from the widely used theory of diffraction analysis, which confirms the necessity of taking into account the pulse duration parameter in the diagnosis of complex structures.
Experimental and Numerical Study of the Effect of Carbonate Rock Dissolution on Absolute Permeability of 408 Heterogeneous and Naturally Fractured Samples
Authors: Akasheva Zhibek K. , Assilbekov Bakytzhan K. , Bolysbek Darezhat A. , Iskakov Berik A. , Uzbekaliyev Kenbai Sh. , Issayev Gani I.
Published: November 2023

Permeability is an important transport property of porous materials, and its accurate evaluation is relevant in studying applied tasks such as CO2 injection into reservoirs and investigating groundwater quality issues. This study examines the dependence of permeability on total and connected porosity, hydraulic tortuosity, specific surface area, and mean pore radius based on the data of 408 cubic sub-volumes extracted from heterogeneous and naturally fractured cylindrical carbonate samples before and after injection of HCl solutions into them. These parameters were computed using pore-scale modeling of fluid flow. It has been shown that permeability correlates well with porosity and mean pore radius with correlation coefficients of R2≈0.65-0.79 for heterogeneous samples. It was found that the presence of natural fractures significantly influenced the relationship between permeability and other parameters. The relationship between permeability k, tortuosity τ, and specific surface area S is described by power laws k~τ-α and k~S-β, with coefficients α and β substantially exceeding those in the Kozeny-Carman equation. It was also found that there is a parabolic relationship between connected and total porosities both before and after rock dissolution with R2≈0.96-0.99. This allowed for estimation of percolation threshold porosity that are in good agreement with the literature data.