bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dual-loop control strategies for vibration attenuation of a flexible parallel manipulator
Authors: Geronel Renan Sanches , de Oliveira Gustavo Corrêa , da Silva Maíra Martins
Published: December 2024

Most of the current robots employed in industrial applications are classified according to two main types: serial link and parallel link manipulators. Despite the advantage of larger access to the workspace by the serial manipulators, parallel manipulators can provide improved relations between strength and weight and higher accuracy. The flexible parallel manipulator (PM) appears as an interesting alternative due to its positive characteristics, such as lightweight, higher speed, energy efficiency, enhanced mobility, and great payload/arm weight ratio compared to PMs with rigid links. However, the flexible dynamics of the PMs can generate uncertainties and undesired vibrations during the motion, requiring novel joint and robust dual-loop control strategies. This manuscript investigates dual-loop control strategies using a 3RRR prototype with flexible links. Initially, only the camera loop is assessed as a reference. Then, the design of a dual-loop control, combining the camera and strain loops, is investigated. Each dual-loop control is formed by two control loops: position-based visual servo and strain-based feedback control schemes. While the position-based employs an oCam-5CRO-U for acquiring the images, the strain-based loop combines the strain output and filters to remove the DC offset and signal noise. In addition, different trajectories and masses are employed to investigate the overall performance of the control strategies. Compared with the full visual servo methodology, the enhanced dual-loop control can considerably attenuate the overshoot of the end-effector response by reaching up to 54.83% for the step in x-direction and up to 40.83% for the step in y-direction and oscillations up to 19.95%.
Riding the Climate Surge: How Climate Change Dynamics Drives Green Innovation—Evidence From China
Authors: Yuan Lin , Chen Xiaoyun , Yang Endong
Published: December 2024

Climate change dynamics and its irregular behavior has been recognized and documented by scientists. However, little is known about how this dynamic process of climate change affects firms’ green innovation, as the debate surrounding how climate change’s impact on business often centers on the effects of static climatic events. This study disentangles the dynamic process of climate change into two dimensions—speed and irregularity. Based on the attention-based view, we argue that the speed of climate change positively influences firms’ green innovation, while the irregularity of climate negatively impacts it. In addition, we propose that these relationships are contingent on firms’ state ownership. Tests on a sample of Chinese listed firms with 47,265 observations spanning the 2000–2022 period support this framework.
Social sustainability in local communities in Norway: which factors are associated with people’s satisfaction with their local community as a place to live now and in the future?
Authors: Ånestad Ragnhild M. , A. NordbØ Emma C. , IhlebÆk Camilla
Published: December 2024

Aim:

To investigate the associations between social sustainability factors and people’s satisfaction with their local community as a place to live now and in the future.

Methods:

This study used data from the Norwegian County Public Health Survey conducted in Viken County, Norway, in 2021 ( N = 97,323). The survey included questions concerning physical aspects (e.g. accessibility of services and facilities) and non-physical aspects (civic participation, social support, trust, safety, place attachment and well-being) of social sustainability in local communities. A new outcome variable was constructed to capture people’s satisfaction with their local community as a place to live now and in the future. Hierarchical linear regression was applied to examine the relationships between physical and non-physical factors of social sustainability and this outcome.

Results:

All included factors were significantly associated with people’s satisfaction with their local community as a place to live now and in the future, but the magnitude and direction of these associations varied. Place attachment (β = 0.53), safety (β = 0.15) and well-being (β = 0.11) were the strongest indicators of people’s satisfaction with their local community. Non-physical factors accounted for 41% of the variance in people’s satisfaction, while physical factors accounted for 14%.

Conclusions:

Both physical and non-physical factors are essential for developing socially sustainable communities. This knowledge could be valuable for academics and policymakers, helping them better understand the complex relationships between various aspects of social sustainability and informing the development of socially sustainable local communities.
When less is more: Exploring the role of silence in consumers’ identity work
Authors: Dehling Noémie
Published: December 2024

Consumer identity work refers to the reflexive and ongoing process by which individuals create, manage, and communicate their sense of identity through consumption. Although the literature highlights the strategies by which consumers engage with marketplace resources, less is known about the more internal and reflexive aspects of identity work. In an environment saturated with identity choices and imperatives, our study seeks to understand how consumers’ experiences of silence—defined as the temporary absence of external stimuli—contribute to their identity work. Based on in-depth interviews, we demonstrate that the consumption of silence creates an “in-between space” in the dialectic of identification. Specifically, we show that silence functions as (a) a protective boundary that preserves consumers’ sense of agency from external demands; (b) a symbol of freedom for self-actualization used to present one’s identity; and (c) an inner space for reflection that fosters a transformative internal dialogue.
Municipal structure and government creditworthiness: Evidence from Massachusetts municipalities
Authors: Wei Wenchi , Zhang Chuping
Published: December 2024

Municipal structure plays a vital role in the politics and administration of cities. Conventional classifications of municipal structures into mayor-council or council-manager systems have limitations, overlooking important subsidiary features. This study investigates seven structural characteristics of U.S. municipalities, constructing a political-administrative index to assess their impact on government creditworthiness. Theoretically, municipal structure affects government management in terms of accountability and efficiency, influencing performance and credit ratings. Empirical analyses, using data from ICMA surveys and Massachusetts’ Division of Local Services, show that the administrative or professional municipal structure receives higher credit ratings from Moody’s. These findings have significant scholarly and practical implications for understanding municipal structure and government creditworthiness.
Evolving in Typological Research: The Development, Exploratory Validation, and Utility of a Typology Tool for Adolescents With Problematic Sexual Behaviors
Authors: Yoder Jamie , Brusman Lovins Lori , Brown Adam , Berry Stuart , Bauerschmidt Tim , Morgan Angela , Tucholski Nick , Haar Jill , Jimenez Fraile Brian
Published: December 2024

Research has long demonstrated that adolescents with sexual problem behaviors (PSB-A) have variations in developmental antecedents and types of sexually problematic behaviors. The knowledge of adult and adolescent between-group variation has contributed to further complexities in classifying within-group differences in adolescents with typological research being at the forefront of this conversation. Despite some research using existing data sources to create typological distinctions via Latent Class Analysis (LCA), etiological research has not been prospectively integrated consistently or comprehensively when constructing and validating domains that then generate typological distinctions via LCA. The current study partnered with a midwestern specialized court docket to conduct an exploratory formative evaluation in developing and preliminarily validating a PSB-A typology tool that was then used to generate broad typological classifications of PSB-A. This work is an initial exploration study that will be expanded to a larger validation project using larger samples and prospective data collection procedures with the hope of offering court and clinical utility to aid in individualizing treatment and supervision of PSB-A.
Flow diverter versus stent-assisted coiling treatment for managing dissecting intracranial aneurysms: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Brenner Leonardo O. , Prestes Milena Zadra , Soares Cid , Romeiro Pedro , Gomez Victor A. , Rabelo Nicollas Nunes , Welling Leonardo C. , Koester Stefan W. , Pinheiro Agostinho C. , Batista Sávio , Bertani Raphael , Figueiredo Eberval Gadelha , Cavalcanti Daniel Dutra
Published: December 2024

Background

Dissecting intracranial aneurysms (DIAs) have been treated through endovascular reconstructive manners, such as flow diverters (FDs) and stent-assisted coiling (SAC). Notably, no robust evidence has compared both approaches. Hence, the authors conducted a meta-analysis to compare their outcomes.

Methods

PubMed, Embase and Web of Science were searched for studies employing SAC and FD treatment for DIAs. The following outcomes were considered for extraction: procedure-related mortality, total mortality, postoperative and follow-up complete aneurysm occlusion, complications, good clinical outcomes, recurrence, and retreatment. Odds ratio (OR) with random effects was employed for statistical comparison.

Results

The meta-analysis included 10 studies. A total of 195 and 222 patients were included in the FD and the SAC group, respectively. Stent-assisted coiling had higher postoperative complete aneurysm occlusion rates (OR 0.03; 95% CI 0.01–0.08). Flow diverter retreatment rate was lower, but without statistical significance (OR 0.35; 95% CI 0.11–1.10). No significant differences were found in follow-up complete aneurysm occlusion (OR 1.18; 95% CI 0.35–3.99); total mortality (OR 0.44; 95% CI 0.09–2.08); intraoperative complications (OR 0.30; 95% CI 0.06–1.45); postoperative complication (OR 0.77; 95% CI 0.35–1.70); good clinical outcomes (OR 0.97; 95% CI 0.43–2.20); and recurrence (OR 0.38; 95% CI 0.13–1.10) between the two groups.

Conclusion

Stent-assisted coiling shows higher postoperative complete aneurysmal occlusion rates, but both techniques achieve similar rates in angiographic follow-up. Flow diverter has lower, but not statistically significant, retreatment rates than SAC. Both techniques have similar complication rates. Future randomized, multicenter, and prospective studies with larger sample sizes are needed for more conclusive findings.
Heat-Stable Insulins: Any Progress?
Authors: Heinemann Lutz
Published: December 2024

Millions of people with diabetes have no or only limited access to electricity that limits their ability to store insulin according to the recommendations of the insulin manufacturer in general. At the same time, environmental temperatures are increasing in many countries which have a negative impact on the glucose-lowering effect of insulin not stored adequately. Therefore, the availability of heat-stable insulin formulations that do not require constant cooling would be of help for many patients; however, despite this clinical need, apparently not many are in clinical development. This commentary discusses the different aspects and approaches that are of relevance in this context.
Digital communication media and maternal health education: Integration of bibliometric analysis, methodological analysis, and meta-synthesis
Authors: Mulyani Erry Yudhya , Rakhmawati Tri , Damayanti Sih , Sumaedi Sik
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Information and communication technology advances have resulted in new communication channels, namely digital communication media, that can support maternal health education.

Objective

This study examines the current research situation on the use of digital communication media in the context of maternal health education.

Methods

The papers were collected from the Scopus database. Bibliometric analysis, methodological analysis, and meta-synthesis were performed to achieve the research objectives. Of the 426 papers, 316 were included in the filtering process (published in journals and English). A total of 98 papers were included in the analysis stage, with criteria that the paper must contain empirical studies, discuss digital communication media (maternal-health education), and the research subject is pregnant women.

Results

The bibliometric analysis results show the top authors (authors with the most publications and citations), top countries, top journals, top papers, and the research collaborations on the topic. The four theme groups in the meta-synthesis show that digital communication media has been widely utilized and is an effective tool for maternal health education. The USA, Australia, and Iran are the countries where most research is on digital communication media (maternal health education). The most researched digital communication media are mobile apps and social media. Most studies on this topic used a quantitative approach with experiments as a data collection procedure.

Conclusion

Several research gaps proposed in this study were exploring perceptions and acceptance of pregnant women regarding maternal health education, maternal education based on country context, and further research by considering the relevant theories.
Visual analysis of research trends and hotspots in wearable electronic devices in the medical field: A bibliometric study
Authors: Zhang Ni , Peng Yanyang , Guo Qing
Published: December 2024

Background

Healthcare services and functionalities need comprehensive upgrades, and advancements in information technology have driven research in wearable electronic devices (WDs), making them critical tools for this purpose.

Objective

To conduct a systematic bibliometric analysis of WDs in the medical field and understand research trends.

Methods

A literature search of articles related to WDs in the medical field was conducted in the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) from 2013 to 2023. Articles were analyzed using CiteSpace 6.1.R6.

Results

Publications on WDs have increased yearly since 2014, peaking in 2021. The United States leads with 935 articles. PLOS One is the top journal, and Bland et al. have the highest citation frequencies. Hot topics include mobile apps, phones, and neural networks, with research on physical activity, sleep monitoring, and atrial fibrillation.

Conclusions

This study identifies key journals, countries, institutions, and authors in WDs research, highlighting trends and global interest in health monitoring and assessment. The United States leads in research, with future trends focusing on neural network monitoring, accuracy improvements, cloud storage, and advancements in healthcare management systems.
A Meta-Analysis of the Impact of External Interventions on Conflict Intensity: Navigating Heterogeneity and Unveiling Genuine Effects
Authors: Demena Binyam Afewerk , Anwar Amar , Murshed Syed Mansoob
Published: December 2024

We investigate 833 reported estimates detailing the impact of external interventions aimed at alleviating civil war on conflict intensity. This investigation encompasses 34 studies conducted between 1996 and 2020, primarily focusing on African countries. While the average reported effect is both negative and statistically significant, our analysis reveals substantial divergence in the results. We apply meta-regression analysis to examine the sources of this heterogeneity. Our main findings are as follows. First, differences in data, intervention targets, conflict intensity measures, and the publication year of the primary studies account for the observed heterogeneity in reported estimates. Second, we find no evidence of publication selection bias that aligns with prior beliefs, theoretical expectations, or statistical significance. Third, after considering potential sources of heterogeneity and publication bias, the overall genuine effect of external intervention remains negative and statistically significant. This implies that external intervention efforts do mitigate conflict intensity, albeit with a small magnitude of the statistical significance coefficient. For policy purposes, external interventions are likely to have a modest effect.
Spatial Spillover of Digital Economy and Green Finance for High-Quality Development in China
Authors: Teng Yin-Pei , Lan Li-Zhen , Liu Lu-xing
Published: December 2024

Industry 4.0 is growing, and the strong economy is often accompanied by an integrated financial system. Now China is striving for the “double carbon” target and high-quality development so digital economy and green finance have become important strategies. Thus, this paper tries to construct a theoretical framework among them and uses various spatial measures and panel threshold techniques to analyze their relationship. The results demonstrate that: (1) Spatial correlation is an important and indispensable factor testified by the digital economy and green finance in the process of high-quality development. (2) The effect of digital economy differs from that of green finance on high-quality development. Moreover, the former outweighs the latter in China. The synergy between the two attributes more to economic development, indicating that the digital economy is beneficial for green finance. (3) The test of threshold effect shows that there is a threshold between digital economy and green finance, and only when the two match each other and develop coordinately can the effect on high-quality development be achieved better.
Chronic Disease Management in a Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinic: An Interpretive Description Study
Authors: Floriancic Natalie , Garnett Anna , Donelle Lorie
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Nurse practitioner-led clinics (NPLC) represent a model of care that has the potential to enhance primary healthcare delivery to community-dwelling adults who are living with chronic disease by providing greater access and continuity of care and reducing the burden on acute care settings. However, there is limited understanding of nurse practitioners’ experiences and perspectives on supporting adults in chronic disease management within an NPLC model of care. Increased understanding would contribute to our ability to evaluate the effectiveness of the NPLC model of care for chronic disease management.

Objective

This study explored current chronic disease management practices implemented by nurse practitioners within NPLC throughout the Province of Ontario.

Methods

A qualitative study was implemented using interpretive description. In-depth interviews were conducted between January 2021 and May 2021 with nurse practitioners who were practicing within NPLCs across Ontario. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Eleven interviews were completed with nurse practitioners who provided care to community-dwelling adults who were managing chronic disease in a range of geographic settings. Resultant themes included: the nurse practitioner role in bridging access to patients who fall between the cracks, benefits of interprofessional care, meeting a patient where they are at, and addressing healthcare system burden.

Conclusion

Results suggest that NPLCs are well-positioned to support community-based patients living with chronic disease through provision of on-site interprofessional care, continuity in service provision and increased access to primary healthcare services. This article provides insights into the nurse practitioner led primary healthcare model and how it can facilitate access to services, foster patient self-management and provide a successful alternative model of care.
Factors associated with tetanus toxoid vaccine utilization among reproductive-age women in Debre Markos town, Ethiopia, 2021: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Tamiru Yihunnie Dessie , Sendo Endalew Gemechu , Deressa Jembere Tesfaye
Published: December 2024

Background:

The risk of neonatal tetanus infection will be reduced when the pregnant woman takes two doses of the maternal tetanus toxoid vaccine. In Ethiopia, however, low immunization coverage levels, mostly due to missed opportunities, are a concern. The study’s main objective of the study was to assess tetanus toxoid immunization utilization coverage and associated factors among postnatal mothers in Debre Markos town, Ethiopia.

Materials and Methods:

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 505 mothers who had given birth in the last 12 months. A two-stage stratified sampling technique was applied, and the The participants were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. Data were entered into EpiData manager version 4.6.0 and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 25 software. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed. Adjusted odds ratios (AORs) at 95% CIs were used to identify factors associated with tetanus toxoid immunization utilization.

Results:

The total tetanus vaccine intake (TT+2) doses were 71.2% (95% CI: 67.4–76.2). Mothers who attended primary school (AOR: 0.07, 95% CI: (0.01–0.6)), mothers whose husbands had secondary education (AOR: 0.26, 95% CI: (0.08–0.84)), mothers who attended 2–3 times antenatal care (ANC) visit (AOR: 0.05, 95% CI: (0.01–0.3)), good quality service (AOR: 2.8, 95% CI: (1.05–7.5)), appropriate behavior of health workers (AOR: 6.2, 95% CI: (2.2–18.7)), and who visited health extension workers (AOR: 7.6, 95% CI: (2.3–25.3)) were significantly associated with TT vaccine utilization.

Conclusion:

Only three out of four pregnant women received the current TT vaccine during their previous pregnancy. The most influencing factors in TT vaccine utilization were the mother and her husband’s low educational level, 2–3 times ANC visits during pregnancy, the standard of healthcare service, the healthcare provider’s behavior, and the mother’s visits with health extension staff.
Over 400 food resources from Brazil: evidence-based records of wild edible mushrooms
Authors: Drewinski Mariana P. , Corrêa-Santos Marina Pires , Lima Vitor X. , Lima Felipe T. , Palacio Melissa , Borges Maria Eduarda A. , Trierveiler-Pereira Larissa , Magnago Altielys C. , Furtado Ariadne N. M. , Lenz Alexandre R. , Silva-Filho Alexandre G. S. , Nascimento Cristiano C. , Alvarenga Renato L. M. , Gibertoni Tatiana B. , Oliveira Jadson J. S. , Baltazar Juliano M. , Neves Maria Alice , Vargas-Isla Ruby , Ishikawa Noemia K. , Menolli Nelson
Published: December 2024

Many species of mushroom-forming fungi have been harvested in the wild and used for food and medicine for thousands of years. In Brazil, the knowledge of the diversity of wild edible mushrooms remains scattered and poorly studied. Based on new samples, bibliographic records revision, and searches through the GenBank, we recorded 409 species of wild edible mushrooms in Brazil, of which 350 can be safely consumed and 59 are edible but with conditions. Additionally, other 150 species represent taxa with unclear evidence of consumption or unconfirmed edibility status. A total of 86 of the 409 edible species represents consistent records in Brazil based on molecular data and/or Brazilian nomenclatural types. Other 323 names represent species that need further taxonomic investigations to confirm their identity and occurrence in the country, with 41 of them having some record of consumption by part of the Brazilian population. The remaining 282 species can represent new food resources for the country. We generated 143 DNA sequences, representing 40 species within 29 genera. Edible mushrooms are an important non-wood forest product and the knowledge about them adds value to the local biodiversity and the population, increasing the incentive to conservation allied to sustainable rural development.
Potato steroidal glycoalkaloids: properties, biosynthesis, regulation and genetic manipulation
Authors: Liu Yongming , Liu Xiaowei , Li Yingge , Pei Yanfei , Jaleel Abdul , Ren Maozhi
Published: December 2024

Steroidal glycoalkaloids (SGAs), predominantly comprising α-solanine (C45H73NO15) and α-chaconine (C45H73NO14), function as natural phytotoxins within potatoes. In addition to their other roles, these SGAs are crucial for enabling potato plants to withstand biotic stresses. However, they also exhibit toxicity towards humans and animals. Consequently, the content and distribution of SGAs are crucial traits for the genetic improvement of potatoes. This review focuses on advancing research related to the biochemical properties, biosynthesis, regulatory mechanisms, and genetic improvement of potato SGAs. Furthermore, we provide perspectives on future research directions to further enhance our understanding of SGA biosynthesis and regulation, ultimately facilitating the targeted development of superior potato varieties.
Sprengstoff. Der Streik der italienischen Gotthardtunnelarbeiter - Alltag und Konflikt im Eisenbahnerdorf Göschenen 1875
Authors: Binnenkade Alexandra
Published: December 2024

«Sprengstoff» analysiert den italienischen Tunnelarbeiterstreik in Göschenen von 1875, als Tausende von italienischen Wanderarbeitern den ersten Eisenbahntunnel durch den Gotthard bauten, den damals längsten Tunnel Europas. Das Dorf wuchs schlagartig von ursprünglich 300 auf eine Bevölkerungszahl von 3'000 und veränderte sich in jeder Hinsicht: physisch, sozial, rechtlich. Die streikenden Arbeiter und ihre Familien führten den Streik als Methode des Arbeitskampf in der Schweiz ein. Die italienischen Migrant:innen bewirkten einen langfristigen Wandel in der nationalen Politik.

Die später hinzugefügte neue Einleitung greift die Methode und die Ergebnisse dieser mikrohistorischen Analyse wieder auf und stellt die Sozial- und Technikgeschichte des Tunnelbaus in eine transnationale Perspektive.
Dwie misje Archibalda C. Coolidge’a do Europy (1918–1919)
Authors: Marczewska-Zagdańska Hanna
Published: December 2024

Celem artykułu jest przedstawienie nieznanej lub w niewielkim stopniu poznanej aktywności międzynarodowej Archibalda C. Coolidge’a, historyka, profesora Harvard University, pioniera badań nad dziejami Rosji w USA, członka The Inquiry i Council on Foreign Relations, wieloletniego redaktora „Foreign Affairs”. Jego dwie misje z ramienia Departamentu Stanu w celu zbierania informacji: do Rosji (kwiecień–październik 1918) oraz byłej monarchii austro-węgierskiej (grudzień 1918 – maj 1919) ukazują, poprzez analizę celów, przebiegu i rezultatów, amerykańską perspektywę poznawczą regionu. Podstawą źródłową badań są drukowane amerykańskie dokumenty, listy, wspomnienia, zapiski.
NEA PAPHOS A‑T‑ELLE ÉTÉ FONDÉE PAR PTOLÉMÉE PHILOMÉTOR (186‑145 AV. J.‑C.) OU PAR PTOLÉMÉE ÉVERGETE II (170‑116 AV. J.‑C.)? NOUVELLES RÉFLEXIONS SUR LA CRÉATION D’UNE NEA ALEXANDRIA A CHYPRE
Authors: Balandier Claire
Published: December 2024

Was Nea Paphos founded by Ptolemy Philometor (186‑145 BC) or by Ptolemy Euergetes II (170‑116 BC)? New thoughts on the creation of a Nea Alexandria in Cyprus. The communis opinion generally states that Nea Paphos was created by Nikokles, the last king of the kingdom of Paphos or eventually by Ptolemy, son of Lagos. This paper inventories the different evidence of public building (city walls, agora, gymnasium, etc.) as well as the grid of the city. It seems that most of the evidence of the city planning belongs to the 2nd century BC. It is then difficult to affirm that the city was created by Nikokles or Ptolemy Soter in the late 4th or early 3rd century BC. On the contrary, it seems that the city was later planned and the result of different phases of elaboration. This is not a particularity of Nea Paphos as shown by different examples elsewhere in the Near East. The urban grid and the new agora as well as the fortification of the city were planned after the seat of the Ptolemaic strategos was transferred from Salamis to Paphos… but it took time before the town was built! The paper tries then to define who could have been the kistes of Nea Paphos: Ptolemy (V) Epiphanus Eucharistos or Ptolemy (VI) Philometor or Ptolemy (VIII) Euergetes II?
ΛΕΟΝΤΟΚΕΦΑΛΗ WATER SPOUTS FROM THE EXCAVATIONS OF THE JAGIELLONIAN UNIVERSITY AT THE AGORA OF NEA PAPHOS, CYPRUS
Authors: Michalik Michał
Published: December 2024

This article undertakes a functional, chronological and provenance study of two architectural details found during the excavations in the Agora of Nea Paphos, Cyprus. Both artefacts represent a fragmentarily preserved protome known as a λεοντοκεφαλή (lion head) water spout. These were recognised as elements of a water system that formed a part of the sculptural decoration of the monumental buildings’ roofs or public fountains. The lion heads from the Agora were classified as sculptures belonging to the Hellenistic‑Roman Period.
UNE MONNAIE À L’IMAGE DE ZEUS TENANT UNE PATÈRE ET UN SCEPTRE DÉCOUVERTE DANS LA MAISON D’AION À NEA PAPHOS À CHYPRE
Authors: Lichocka Barbara
Published: December 2024

The reverse of a Ptolemaic coin (inv. no. 904/2006) excavated in the House of Aion at Nea Paphos, Maloutena (Cyprus) bears a representation of a standing draped male figure holding a long sceptre and a phiale, with a star above. It is close to the images on coins attributed to the Paphos mint in the Hellenistic period, which show a figure of the same type with a sceptre and grain ear/ears, interpreted as Zeus. A question arises whether the coin from the House of Aion is a case of an error, a random variety, or a different type, intentionally depicting Zeus holding, apart from the sceptre, a ritual vessel – a phiale. A portrait of Zeus Salaminios as a figure with these attributes, together with an eagle situated on the wrist, was introduced onto Cypriot coins in the early Roman period, and considering this fact, the iconography of the reverse of the coin from the House of Aion is even more intriguing.
CLOSING IN ON THE SOURCE OF CYPRIOT SIGILLATA/EASTERN SIGILLATA D.
Authors: Lund John
Published: December 2024

The paper addresses the question of the geographical source of the ceramic fine ware called Cypriot Sigillata Eastern Sigillata D (CSI/ESD). It begins with a review of the traditional archaeological methods and archaeometric analyses that have been applied until now and proceeds to explore a hitherto untapped source of information: the stamps seen on some CSI/ESD vessels. It is suggested that a fragmentary stamp from the House of Dionysos in Nea Paphos might be read as Ασπενδίων, which – if correct – indicates that the vessel (and by implication CSI/ESD) was manufactured at Aspendos in Pamphylia rather than in Cyprus as initially thought.
REMARKS ON THE LAST COINAGE OF OLBIA PONTICA
Authors: Bodzek Jarosław , Nosova Ludmila , Redina Evgenia F.
Published: December 2024

Olbia, founded in the 7th century BC, produced its coinage from the 6th century BC onwards. At the end of the 2nd century AD, the city became part of the Moesia Inferior province. In the first quarter of the 3rd century AD, Olbia minted two series of coins, the first for Septimius Severus and the second for Severus Alexander. The aim of the article is to verify the current findings about the Olbian coinage of Severus Alexander. The discussion will focus on the dating, denomination system and iconography of Olbia’s coinage during this period. The issue from Alexander’s time consisted of five types representing four denominations. The tetrassaria, diassaria and assaria had a portrait of the emperor on the obverse, while the obverses of triassaria (two types) bear the image of Julia Mamaea. The reverses of individual types feature motifs known mostly from the coinage of other centres of Moesia Inferior as well as Bithynia and Pontus. Some motifs on the reverses referred to local traditions. Larger denominations had value markings. Both issues minted under Septimius Severus and those from the time of Severus Alexander were produced for practical and demonstrative purposes. The series of coins by Severus Alexander ended the history of the Olbian mint.
THE KYLIX OF ONESIMOS IN THE COLLECTION OF THE PRINCES CZARTORYSKI MUSEUM: EXCAVATIONS OF LUCIEN BONAPARTE, PRINCE OF CANINO
Authors: Gorzelany‑Nowak Dorota
Published: December 2024

When developing museum collections, an important part of the research is determining the provenance of the artefacts, which may cause problems in the case of collections created in the 19th century. In the case of collections purchased by Prince Władysław Czartoryski, it is not common to provide information in archival materials where a given object was found because most of them were acquired at auctions or from intermediaries or antiquarians. The following article discusses the red‑figure kylix of Onesimos from the Late Archaic period, one of the few artefacts with thoroughly documented provenance related to the archaeological activities of Lucien Bonaparte, Prince of Canino. It is also the only one in the group of Greek vases to whom a painter known by name has been attributed.
The Russian-Ukrainian war as a catalyst for changes in social work with veterans
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Zakharina Tetiana
Published: December 2024

The article examines the main aspects of the influence of the Russian-Ukrainian war on the development of social work with veterans in the context of the emergence of innovative directions of social work with veterans and types of social work that arose from the Russian-Ukrainian war. A theoretical analysis of scientific sources and monitoring of official websites of state institutions was carried out, as a result of which the main aspects of changes that took place in social work with veterans during the RussianUkrainian war were highlighted. The results of the research, which was carried out in the form of a questionnaire using a Google form, are presented. The results of the study convince us that the needs of veterans have a social, physiological, personal, psychological and legal meaning, which serves as a basis for developing areas of social work with veterans and types of social work. The purpose of the study is to analyze the main changes in social work with veterans in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian war and to develop innovative directions of social work with veterans and types of social work in the conditions of the Russian-Ukrainian war. The main tasks are outlined as follows: to analyze the main changes in social work with veterans in the context of the conflict and justify their significance for society; to investigate the needs of veterans, which is the basis for determining the directions of social work; to develop areas of social work with veterans and types of social work that arose from the Russian-Ukrainian war. Achieving the set goal and solving the research tasks was carried out with the help of theoretical and empirical research methods. The conclusions confirm that the Russian-Ukrainian war became a catalyst for significant changes in social work with veterans. Legislative initiatives, medical programs, support for entrepreneurship and psychological assistance – all this has become an integral part of the system of social protection for veterans. These changes not only improve the living conditions of veterans, but also contribute to the formation of a more sensitive and responsible society that recognizes the value and contribution of its defenders.
Exploring the sea
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: December 2024

Karen Hart writer, early years practitioner and drama teacher, shares ideas for how practitioners can incorporate the topic of sea creatures into their practice to explore and support many areas of the EYFS.
Drug Breakdown: Nabilone
Authors: Rees Sharon
Published: December 2024

In this column, Sharon Rees aims to refresh knowledge and interest in some of the commonly used drugs in a series of posts on X. This month she is talking about #nabilone
Setting the stage
Authors: Webster Chloe
Published: December 2024

With subsidised care now including under-twos, Chloe Webster asks how practitioners can support home learning environments
sound: In control
Authors: Greenfield Hayes
Published: December 2024

In the second part of this series, Hayes Greenfield explores all the ways counting can engage core executive function skills
Room for baby
Authors: Weinstein Nicole
Published: December 2024

Do you intend to set up a new baby room? Nicole Weinstein looks at essential equipment and resources for the indoor environment
An A to Z of enhancements: Y is for Yet
Authors: Jackson Amy
Published: December 2024

Some ideas for supporting children in setting goals and celebrating achievements while encouraging ‘mistakes’. By Amy Jackson
The big picture
Authors: Boyd Diane , Lee Kerrie , Scollan Angela
Published: December 2024

What does Sustainable Pedagogy look like in practice in the early years, ask Dr Diane Boyd, Kerrie Lee and Dr Angela Scollan
Isolation and selection of probiotic Lactobacillus strains from chicken intestinal tract: A potential solution for sustainable poultry production in Vietnam
Authors:   School of Agriculture and Aquaculture, Tra Vinh University, Tra Vinh City 87000, Vietnam, Thuy Nguyen Phuong
Published: December 2024

The escalating demand for sustainable poultry production in Vietnam necessitates the exploration of alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters. This study investigated the probiotic potential of Lactobacillus strains isolated from the intestinal tract of healthy chickens. Thirty isolates were screened for their resilience to acidic and bile salt conditions, key characteristics for probiotic survival in the gastrointestinal tract. The strain LC16 demonstrated exceptional tolerance to both low pH and bile salts. The antimicrobial activity of the selected strains was evaluated against common poultry pathogens (E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella sp.), and their antibiotic susceptibility was also assessed. Strain LC16 exhibited both potent antimicrobial activity and resistance to all tested antibiotics. Molecular identification through PCR and 16S rRNA gene sequencing confirmed LC16 as Lactobacillus farciminis. The identification of L. farciminis LC16, a strain possessing a combination of desirable probiotic traits, including robust antimicrobial activity, tolerance to challenging gastrointestinal conditions, and antibiotic resistance, highlights its potential as a promising candidate for further development as a probiotic for chickens.
Mass spectrometric study of proteins of various variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2
Authors: Khaneja Poorna , Angel Annette , Buvvaji Shareef Mohammed , Barthwal Shilpa , Sharma Bhawna , Singh Neha
Published: December 2024

The occurrence of SARS-CoV-2 infection since 2019 created a havoc worldwide. To add to this, the appearance of various variants from all parts of the world increased the pandemic and transmission capacity of the virus. Since proteins play the final role during the entry, replication as well as exit events, it becomes necessary to understand changes that might have taken place in all the protein constituents of the virus when it is inside the host. Present study was undertaken to look for the various protein components of the virus that is detectable in the host cell and its comparative existence in different variants of SARS-COV-2. The electrophoresis of the virus samples isolated from Vero cell lines were performed and then subjected for LC-Mass Spectrometric analysis. It was observed that Spike protein was the major protein visible in the Delta strain quantitatively compared to Wuhan and Omicron strains. On the other hand, Membrane protein which was of low molecular weight appeared to be stable in all three variants. The study addresses the prominent appearance of Spike protein of Delta strain in the infected cells that might have led to increased transmissibility and cell to cell infection compared to other strains.
Formulas for calculating ζ3
Authors: Siracusa Calogero Salvatore
Published: December 2024

In this article we want to show an application of the Huygens-Steiner theorem to number theory and in particular to the calculation of ζ3.
Reliability Optimization Using Progressive Batching L-BFGS
Authors: Etesam Mohammad , Borzadaran Gholam Reza Mohtashami
Published: December 2024

Reliability optimization can be applied to find parameters that increase reliability and decrease costs, in the presence of uncertainty. Nowadays, with the increasing complexity of systems, it is important to find suitable optimization methods. In this regard, we can refer to gradient-based optimization methods. The power of stochastic gradient-based approaches in optimization under uncertainty resides in efficiency in using sampling information. These methods allow applying a small sample size in updating problem parameters. Using a small sample size also has its disadvantages, and it leads to oscillation around the minimum point when approaching the minimum. One of the ways to solve this problem is to use progressive batching. Here, to increase stability Progressive Batching L-BFGS (PB-LBFGS) and Progressive Batching L-BFGS with momentum (PB-mLBFGS) are used for reliability optimization, and with an example, the effectiveness of these approaches is compared with some other optimization methods.
Between Empires: The Dialect and Commercial Networks of Siam-Taiwan Tea Merchants (1885–1915)
Authors: Hsieh Chun-Tse
Published: December 2024

Abstract: From the late nineteenth century, Formosan tea gradually entered the global market. The methods by which it was traded and the sales networks of tea merchants also manifested the formation and transfer of the commercial culture and practices of Taiwan. However, past research has paid little attention to how the Nanyang (Southeast Asian) experience of Taiwanese Baozhong (Pouchong) tea merchants took shape and the development of sales routes. Therefore, this paper focuses on the sale of Baozhong tea to Siam, and discusses how tea merchants relied on dialect networks to open up a channel for Baozhong tea to be sold to Siam. Taiwanese Baozhong tea was exported to Siam as early as 1885. However, official statistics did not formally appear until 1916. This paper analyses what lay behind the tea trade phenomenon and uncovers the dependence of the Siam tea merchants of the time on dialect networks. From cultivation to consumption, Taiwanese Baozhong tea was involved with the life experience of members of these dialect groups in their original native places and with their food cultures. The most important dialect groups involved were immigrants and businessmen from southern Fujian province and from Chaozhouin Guangdong province. In order to sell Baozhong tea to Siam, Taiwanese tea merchants linked up dialect networks that stretched from Taiwan through Xiamen and Chaozhou all the way to Bangkok.
Archangels, Empty Ciboria, and the Defense of Late Antique Miletus: More Light from the Ancient East
Authors: Niewöhner Philipp
Published: December 2024

Abstract: Following an authoritative interpretation by the eminent theologian Adolf Deissmann, the well-known archangel inscription CIG 2895 on the Roman theatre of Miletus in western Asia Minor was long understood as a paradigmatic example of early Christian continuation of more ancient beliefs and religion. Against this, and from a comparative religious studies standpoint, Rangar Cline has more recently argued that the archangel inscription was in fact pre-Christian and represented syncretistic magic from earlier Late Antiquity, when Christianity had not yet become the sole religion and Miletus was still tolerant of other beliefs and practices. The paper in hand follows up with new archaeological and epigraphic evidence concerning the location, reading, and context of the inscription. Some of the new discoveries would at first seem to support Cline’s syncretistic understanding, but overall, the weight of all available evidence leads back to Deissmann’s original interpretation. As a result, the archangel inscription stands confirmed as an instance of early Christian appropriation of ancient magic.
Mortuary Display and the Burial of the Rich in the Late Antique Eastern Mediterranean
Authors: Bollók Ádám
Published: December 2024

Abstract: Based on a review of the written and the archaeological record, the present paper surveys the transformation of the forms of mortuary display of the wealthy introduced under the influence of Christianization in the eastern provinces of the later Roman Empire between the fourth and the first half of the seventh centuries. The paper focuses on two major forms of displaying affluence and elevated social status, both of which regularly appear in the period’s writings and in archaeological contexts, namely, the erection of sumptuous mausolea and the dressing of the dead in expensive silken garments decorated with golden treads or gold appliqués. It is argued that while the Church expected wealthier members to comply with several regulations central to the Christian teachings in mortuary matters, it also left some room, in things both material and immaterial, for indulging the aspirations of mortuary display among the rich. While the Church Fathers’ rhetoric may convey the impression that their intention was to abolish almost all forms of traditional Mediterranean mortuary display, scrutiny of the available evidence demonstrates that their actual goal was less ambitious. On the one hand, they strove to discourage extravagant displays as well as any elements visibly linked to traditional Graeco-Roman cults, while on the other they sought to channel a part of the wealth of the rich into institutions of Christian philanthropy.
Monumentum Regale : Elegies on Charles I in the John Emmerson Collection, State Library Victoria
Authors: Ross Sarah C. E.
Published: December 2024

Abstract: The John Emmerson Collection at State Library Victoria is one of the richest collections in the world of printed materials relating to the English Civil War and the 'great political events of the seventeenth century'. At its heart is the ghostly presence of the executed King Charles I as the subject of text and images in its books, pamphlets, broadsheets, and embroidered bindings. Taking up Charles I as icon and body, text and image, this article explores the volumes of elegies on the king in the collection, asking how Emmerson's books can add to studies of Charles I elegies and their circulation and reception in the seventeenth century and beyond. It focuses on the relationship between the king's body, text (print, manuscript, marginalia), and visual image (printed, cut, copied, pasted), and on insights that the Emmerson Collection provides into later readers' and owners' interactions with elegiac materials on the king. Tracing the king's textual and visual body as it is extracted, resituated, and reincorporated in Emmerson's books, it also considers Emmerson as a reader and collector himself constructing a 'monumentum regale', a tomb for the monarch.
Afterword: Ten Pound Poms
Authors: Smith Emma
Published: December 2024

Abstract: The Afterword to the special issue emphasises portability, traffic, and the movement intrinsic to Emmerson's collection. By comparing the books to other, human migrants, those 'ten pound poms' who travelled from the UK to Australia contemporaneously with Emmerson's collecting, themes of belonging, migration and translocation are explored. Charles I's travelling library, the one object that Emmerson separated from his collection and donated to a UK institution, comes to symbolise these bibliographic energies.