bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the Special Program in the Arts Implementation
Authors: Villarosa Rodulfo , Baluyos Esther
Published: February 2024

Special Program in the Arts provides avenues where students with potential in any art field can progressively enhance their talents and skills towards promoting Filipino culture, heritage preservation, and the development of global excellence. This study assessed the Special Program in the Arts (SPA) implementation in Kapatagan National High School, Division of Lanao del Norte, Region X. This study used a descriptive-correlational design. A total of one hundred twenty (120) individuals were administrators, teachers, and students who were the study's respondents. Findings revealed that learners' objectives, teachers' competence, and facilities and equipment have high ratings in implementing the SPA. The respondents differed in their perceptions of the facilities and equipment among the constructs. Results revealed a very high level of attainment of the SPA learning outcomes. In the implementation of SPA, the teachers' expertise in delivering the content of the curriculum is of high importance. The resourcefulness and innovativeness of teachers in preparing learning materials and different evaluative tools attest to overcoming the school facilities' issues. It is recommended that the school administration provide the necessary fund for the facility to continue the SPA's effectiveness.

Keywords : curriculum content, facilities, and equipment, learning outcomes, program objectives, teacher's competence
PEMAHAMAN PERATURAN PERPAJAKAN, SANKSI, DAN PERSEPSI TARIF PAJAK TERHADAP KEPATUHAN WAJIB PAJAK USAHA MIKRO KECIL MENENGAH (UMKM) DI WILAYAH KABUPATEN BEKASI
Authors: Sianturi Gustini , Manrejo Sumarno , Faeni Dewi Puspaningtyas
Published: February 2024

Tujuan penelitian ini yaitu menguji dan menganalisis pengaruh Pemahaman Peraturan Perpajakan, Sanksi dan Persepsi Tarif Pajak Terhadap Kepatuhan Wajib Pajak Usaha Mikro Kecil Menengah di Wilayah Kabupaten Bekasi. Metode penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian kuantitatif, dengan jenis dan sumber data yaitu data primer yang diperoleh dari hasil pengisian kuesioner kepada 100 responden. Software yang digunakan pada penelitian ini adalah Smart PLS yang terdiri dari terdiri dari teknik analisis inner model dan outer model. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan  pemahaman peraturan perpajakan berpengaruh terhadap kepatuhan wajib pajak, sanksi pajak berpengaruh terhadap kepatuhan wajib pajak, persepsi tarif pajak berpengaru terhadap kepatuhan wajib pajak.
The Influence of E- Service Quality and Trust on E-Customer Loyalty Through Satisfaction for users of Grab Online Services in Medan City
Authors: Pasaribu Lidya Natalia
Published: February 2024

Objective study This is For analyze the influence of E - service quality and trust on E-customer loyalty through satisfaction user Grab online services in Medan City . The number of respondents in the research was 144 users of Grab online services in Medan City. The sampling technique used was Purposive Sampling with the Non-probability Sampling method. In accordance with data availability and analytical demands, researchers used SPSS version 24 to analyze the data. This research suggests that all variables have a significant influence between direct and mediated relationships starting from E-service quality and trust have a positive and significant influence on satisfaction, E-service quality and trust have a positive and significant influence on E-customer loyalty then Satisfaction has a positive and significant influence on E-customer loyalty. Furthermore, E-service quality and trust have an influence positive And significant towards E - customer loyalty through satisfaction user Grab online services in Medan City
Analysis of Control Activities in Sales Procedures
Authors: Luthfih Yussi Dwi , Halawa Irena Mei Darnis , Wulandari Amelia Agustri , Linawati Linawati
Published: February 2024

This research aims to find out the application of controls on sales procedures at the Sinar Mulya Agung Building Shop. The research method used is qualitative, and the data collection techniques are interviews and documentation. The results showed that the control over the sales procedure at the Sinar Mulya Agung Building Shop was inadequate, this was because the sales documents used were only sales notes and only signed by the sales clerk, the records used were still simple, and there were no financial reports, there was no separation of functions especially related to sales clerks and responsible for inventory. Internal control acts as a bulwark against fraud and error. Companies can prevent and detect unethical practices through proper policies, procedures, and segregation of duties.
Social Interaction Services as Mediation between Corporate Image and Social Interaction Satisfaction
Authors: Kurniawan Arief Adhy , Kartawan Kartawan , Setyawati Srimurni , Nida Faridatun
Published: February 2024

MSMEs are currently growing rapidly, especially MSMEs that provide social interaction services in restaurants or cafes. Social interaction develops along with the existence of social media. This has resulted in competition for MSMEs as social interaction service providers. Consumers who interact socially will return to transactions if they feel satisfaction when interacting socially. Therefore, realizing customer satisfaction is important for MSMEs, so that consumers want to come back and recommend it to others. This research aims to examine the effect of corporate image on social interaction satisfaction, examine the effect of social interaction services on social interaction satisfaction and examine the role of social interaction in mediating corporate image with social interaction satisfaction. This research was conducted on consumers who are socially interacting in restaurants or cafes in Purwokerto. The study was conducted in 58 restaurants or cafes with a consumer sample size of 310 respondents. The analytical tool used is a structural equation model (SEM) with PLS software. This study concludes with the effect of corporate image on social interaction satisfaction. There is an influence of social interaction on the satisfaction of social interaction and social interaction services can mediate the company's image with the satisfaction of social interaction.
Analysis of the Effect of Financial Performance on Stock Prices in Consumer Sector Manufacturing Companies Listed on The Indonesia Stock Exchange for the Period 2017 – 2022
Authors: Fadila Zakia , Hou Amin , Harianto Adi , Pasaribu Deby Siska Oktavia , Hirzi M. Fakhrul
Published: February 2024

This study aims to analyze the effect of financial performance on stock prices in consumer sector manufacturing companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the period 2017 - 2022. The method used by the author in this study uses descriptive quantitative research methods. This descriptive qualitative research is to determine the effect of financial performance on stock prices in consumption sector manufacturing companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the period 2017 - 2022. Population identification in this study is the consumer goods industry sector of the food and beverage industry subsector totaling 26 companies. The sample in this study amounted to 7 food and beverage industry sector companies listed on the IDX 2024. Data analysis in this study used the Structural Equation Model Partial Least Square (SEM-PLS). The results of this study are partially ROE has no positive and insignificant effect on stock prices in Consumer Sector Manufacturing Companies Listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the period 2017 - 2022, 2) partially ROA has a positive and insignificant effect on stock prices in Consumer Sector Manufacturing Companies Listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the period 2017 - 2022, 3) partially DER has a positive and insignificant effect on stock prices in Consumer Sector Manufacturing Companies Listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the period 2017 - 2022. 4) simultaneously ROE, ROA and DER have a positive and insignificant effect on stock prices in Consumer Sector Manufacturing Companies Listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the period 2017 - 2022
Barreras y avances en la igualdad de género en el entorno laboral: un estudio documental
Authors: Juca-Maldonado Fernando Xavier , Mocha-Román Verónica
Published: February 2024

Este estudio documental se centra en la persistente desigualdad de género en el lugar de trabajo, explorando tanto las barreras como los progresos en este ámbito. A través de un análisis exhaustivo de la literatura académica existente, se identifican problemas como la brecha salarial y la subrepresentación de las mujeres en roles de liderazgo, mientras se destacan las acciones correctivas que están generando cambios positivos, como políticas de igualdad salarial y oportunidades equitativas de promoción. También se enfatiza el papel emergente de la tecnología y la inteligencia artificial como medios prometedores para abordar estas desigualdades. A pesar de los desafíos, el estudio concluye que se pueden lograr avances significativos a través de esfuerzos continuos, proactivos, y la adopción de una cultura de diversidad e inclusión. Sin embargo, se sugiere que futuras investigaciones profundicen en áreas específicas, como el impacto de la COVID-19 en la igualdad de género en el trabajo y el papel de la educación en la formación de prejuicios y estereotipos de género, proporcionando así una visión integral y actualizada del estado del arte en la igualdad de género en el lugar de trabajo.

Palabras clave:

Igualdad de género, inteligencia artificial, diversidad, inclusión, cultura organizacional.

 

ABSTRACT

This document-based study focuses on the persistent gender inequality in the workplace, exploring both the barriers and advancements in this area. Through a thorough analysis of existing academic literature, issues such as the gender wage gap and the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles are identified, while highlighting corrective actions that are generating positive changes, such as equal pay policies and equitable promotion opportunities. The emerging role of technology and artificial intelligence as promising means to address these inequalities is also emphasized. Despite the challenges, the study concludes that significant advancements can be made through ongoing, proactive efforts, and the adoption of a culture of diversity and inclusion. However, it suggests that future research delve deeper into specific areas, such as the impact of COVID-19 on gender equality in the workplace and the role of education in the formation of gender biases and stereotypes, thus providing a comprehensive and up-to-date view of the state of the art in workplace gender equality.

Keywords:

Gender equality, artificial intelligence, diversity, inclusion, organizational culture.
Réutiliser des données qualitatives pour analyser les politiques de défense : avenir ou utopie ?
Authors: Borzillo Laurent , Deschaux-Dutard Delphine
Published: February 2024

Cet article vise à démontrer l’intérêt méthodologique et épistémologique de l’analyse secondaire des données qualitatives (asdq) dans les recherches de science politique sur les questions de défense. Méthode largement sous-employée, l’asdq présente pourtant un intérêt fort pour les chercheurs travaillant sur des questions de défense, tant le recueil de données qualitatives de première main peut s’avérer complexe dans la recherche sur ce type d’objet. Après une réflexion épistémologique et méthodologique sur l’asdq elle-même, l’article propose une application de cette méthode aux recherches portant sur les questions de défense en science politique. Il met également en lumière, de façon réflexive, les défis et écueils inévitables à prendre en compte et propose une utilisation raisonnée de l’asdq ainsi que des pistes sur la question du stockage des données qualitatives que cela implique notamment.
Laïcité et religiosité populaire dans un contexte populiste
Authors: Blancarte Roberto
Published: February 2024

La perception sociale sur la laïcité a connu des mutations importantes au Mexique, même si sur le plan juridique les normes restent inchangées. Les acteurs sociaux ne sont plus les mêmes qu’il y a deux décennies. Le paysage religieux a changé. De même, le régime politique a subi des changements substantiels, modifiant le type de relations des institutions religieuses avec l’autorité politique et des fidèles avec leurs propres institutions religieuses. L’arrivée du populisme a substantiellement modifié les relations des gouvernements avec les groupes religieux, mais plus encore avec les croyant.e.s qui sont de plus en plus nombreux à ne pas souscrire systématiquement aux diktats doctrinaux de leurs Églises d’appartenance. La religiosité populaire étant l’expression la plus importante de la majorité des croyant.e.s, c’est dans ce cadre politico-religieux que s’inscrivent les principales questions qu’abordera ce texte.
Passer le flambeau des Cahiers
Authors: Hyland Carignan Carol-Anne
Published: February 2024

Gilles Nadeau, fondateur de la revue des Cahiers francophones de soins palliatifs a été rédacteur de la revue durant plus de vingt ans. Il nous offre un moment priviliégé afin que nous puissions retracer son parcours comme accompagnateur spirituel en soins palliatifs et de fin de vie, fondateur et rédacteurs des Cahiers. Nous tenons à le remercier chaleureusement pour son investissement et son engagement au développement et au maintien du transfert de connaissances par la voie des Cahiers francophones de soins palliatifs. Nous le remercions également pour cette entrevue.
Entrevue avec Jennifer Mallmes
Authors: Plaisance Ariane
Published: February 2024

Jennifer Mallmes est doula de la fin de vie depuis 25 ans. Entrevoyant d’abord de devenir infirmière, une expérience transformatrice a réorienté sa vie. Sa pratique en tant que doula de la fin de vie est axée sur la prise de pouvoir. Elle a fondé l’Association canadienne des doulas de la fin de vie dans le but de régulariser ce rôle. Elle a aussi développé le programme de formation des doulas de la fin de vie du Douglas College et enseigne ce programme. Elle a entre autres formé des prêtres catholiques et des membres de communautés autochtones à l’approche des doulas de la fin de vie.
Soigner au seuil de la mort : l’expérience mystique d’un patient avec la thérapie assistée par la psilocybine
Authors: Farzin Houman
Published: February 2024

Les patients atteints de maladies graves comme les cancers avancés vivent souvent de la détresse existentielle et psychospirituelle. Soulager cette forme de souffrance s’est avéré peu évident en utilisant les traitements traditionnels. La thérapie assistée par la psilocybine emploie les effets psychoactifs de la psilocybine pour catalyser un processus psychothérapeutique ancré dans les traditions autochtones et dans le contexte d’un état d’esprit et d’un environnement thérapeutique (le set and setting). Consciencieusement préparée, cette expérience d’un état d’esprit modifié peut promouvoir la guérison et le développement psychospirituel indépendamment de la trajectoire de la maladie. La recherche actuelle appuie l’utilisation de cette forme de thérapie comme étant un outil thérapeutique sûr et efficace pour les patients ciblés. Ce rapport clinique, fondé sur et écrit depuis la perspective du médecin traitant, décrit le parcours thérapeutique d’un patient portant le nom fictif de Martin, depuis l’annonce de son diagnostic de phase terminale, lors de sa thérapie assistée par la psilocybine, et jusqu’à ce qu’il nous quitte. Martin fut le premier patient au Québec à recevoir un traitement de psilocybine grâce au programme d’accès spécial de Santé Canada et à demander l’aide médicale à mourir, les deux accès ayant été approuvés dans un contexte de soins à domicile et entièrement subventionnés par le système de santé public du Québec.
A dynamical computational model of theta generation in hippocampal circuits to study theta-gamma oscillations during neurostimulation
Authors: Vardalakis Nikolaos , Aussel Amélie , Rougier Nicolas P , Wagner Fabien B
Published: February 2024

Neurostimulation of the hippocampal formation has shown promising results for modulating memory but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In particular, the effects on hippocampal theta-nested gamma oscillations and theta phase reset, which are both crucial for memory processes, are unknown. Moreover, these effects cannot be investigated using current computational models, which consider theta oscillations with a fixed amplitude and phase velocity. Here, we developed a novel computational model that includes the medial septum, represented as a set of abstract Kuramoto oscillators producing a dynamical theta rhythm with phase reset, and the hippocampal formation, composed of biophysically realistic neurons and able to generate theta-nested gamma oscillations under theta drive. We showed that, for theta inputs just below the threshold to induce self-sustained theta-nested gamma oscillations, a single stimulation pulse could switch the network behavior from non-oscillatory to a state producing sustained oscillations. Next, we demonstrated that, for a weaker theta input, pulse train stimulation at the theta frequency could transiently restore seemingly physiological oscillations. Importantly, the presence of phase reset influenced whether these two effects depended on the phase at which stimulation onset was delivered, which has practical implications for designing neurostimulation protocols that are triggered by the phase of ongoing theta oscillations. This novel model opens new avenues for studying the effects of neurostimulation on the hippocampal formation. Furthermore, our hybrid approach that combines different levels of abstraction could be extended in future work to other neural circuits that produce dynamical brain rhythms.
Knockdown of PHOX2B in the retrotrapezoid nucleus reduces the central CO2 chemoreflex in rats
Authors: Cardani Silvia , Janes Tara A , Betzner William , Pagliardini Silvia
Published: February 2024

PHOX2B is a transcription factor essential for the development of different classes of neurons in the central and peripheral nervous system. Heterozygous mutations in the PHOX2B coding region are responsible for the occurrence of Congenital Central Hypoventilation Syndrome (CCHS), a rare neurological disorder characterised by inadequate chemosensitivity and life-threatening sleep-related hypoventilation. Animal studies suggest that chemoreflex defects are caused in part by the improper development or function of PHOX2B expressing neurons in the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN), a central hub for CO2 chemosensitivity. Although the function of PHOX2B in rodents during development is well established, its role in the adult respiratory network remains unknown. In this study, we investigated whether reduction in PHOX2B expression in chemosensitive neuromedin-B (NMB) expressing neurons in the RTN altered respiratory function. Four weeks following local RTN injection of a lentiviral vector expressing the short hairpin RNA (shRNA) targeting Phox2b mRNA, a reduction of PHOX2B expression was observed in Nmb neurons compared to both naive rats and rats injected with the non-target shRNA. PHOX2B knockdown did not affect breathing in room air or under hypoxia, but ventilation was significantly impaired during hypercapnia. PHOX2B knockdown did not alter Nmb expression but it was associated with reduced expression of both Task2 and Gpr4, two CO2/pH sensors in the RTN. We conclude that PHOX2B in the adult brain has an important role in CO2 chemoreception and reduced PHOX2B expression in CCHS beyond the developmental period may contribute to the impaired central chemoreflex function.
Forutsetninger og utfordringer for reindrifta i Norge, Sverige og Finland
Authors: Holand Øystein , Hannu Ulrika , Åhman Birgitta
Published: February 2024

This report is based on the book "Reindeer Husbandry and Global Environmental Change - pastoralism in Fennoscandia". The book, which was published in 2022, brings together previous and new research compiled within a Nordic collaboration project, ReiGN (Reindeer husbandry in a Globalizing North), funded by NordForsk during the years 2016 – 2021. Grants from NordForsk also funded this report.
The report, published in Swedish, Norwegian, Finnish and North Sámi, summarizes some of the main results from the book. In nine chapters it describes how reindeer herding is affected by climate change, the continuous loss of reindeer grazing land and other external factors that together represent large challenges for reindeer, reindeer herders and the reindeer herding community as a whole. The report contains perspectives from many different research areas. Each chapter in the report has one or more references and links to chapters in the above mentioned book, which is freely available online (https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003118565).
The chapters in the report cover a range of different topics, like present and historical reindeer herding (Chapter 1), the genetic background of the semi-domesticated reindeer (Chapter 2), how reindeer ranges are used and how they are affected by climate change and expanding industrial development (Chapter 3), possibilities for adaptation to a warmer climate (Chapter 4), impact of large predators (Chapter 5), external and internal governance (Chapter 6), reindeer herding as subsistence (Chapter 7), the role of supplementary feeding (Chapter 8), and reindeer health and diseases in a climate perspective (Chapter 9). The report ends with some reflections over the present situation and future perspectives for reindeer herding.
The report is aimed at herders and managers, as well as other land users, authorities and policymakers who deal with natural resource management, climate and environmental issues or other matters related to reindeer herding and the use of land and water within the reindeer herding area.
Rangifer Report No 17 is the Norwegian version of the report. A Swedish version has already been published as Rangifer Report No 16. Reports in Finnish and North Sámi are published as following numbers of Rangifer Report.
کارکرد حس ها در یادگیری
Authors: سانجاک سرت زینپ , پانیری جولیانا , آب نیکی محمد , همتی نژاد فرشته
Published: February 2024

استفاده از حس های مختلف برای پردازش و ذخیره اطلاعات جدید روشی قدرتمند برای کاوش در محیط طبیعی برای کودکان و همچنین بزرگسالان است. استفاده از حس ها از طریق اندام های حسی (چشم، گوش، بینی، زبان و پوست) تجربه یادگیری را موثر، معنادار و فراموش نشدنی می کند. این طبیعی ترین روشی است که کودکان از بدو تولد برای یادگیری تک تک جزئیات محیط خود استفاده می کنند.
زندگی با بوی بد
Authors: استیلر ریو متیو , رونس ارلینگ , ایلیتسن ماری , رامالهو سوفیا , پوددوین ویکتور , پانیری جولیانا , آب نیکی محمد , همتی نژاد فرشته
Published: February 2024

تمرکز:

برای درک اینکه سولفید هیدروژن نشان می دهد که حیات در اعماق دریا وجود دارد.

 

اهداف یادگیری:

با این فعالیت، بوی بدی شبیه سولفید هیدروژن از مواد آلی پوسیده ایجاد می کنیم. ما از آن بو به عنوان پایه ای برای بحث درسی در مورد زندگی جالب موجودات و شبکه های غذایی در کف دریا استفاده می کنیم.

 

کلید واژه ها:

اعماق دریا، سولفید هیدروژن، شیمی سنتز، کرم های لوله ای، شبکه های غذایی
گوش دادن به دنیای اطرافمان
Authors: لوسلبن لیزا کاترین , کلریچی مونیکا , هولم ویلادز , پانیری جولیانا , آب نیکی محمد , همتی نژاد فرشته
Published: February 2024

تمرکز:

وقت گذاشتن برای شناسایی و تشخیص صداهای موجود در فضاهای اطرافمان.

 

اهداف یادگیری:

با این فعالیت از طریق گوش دادن به محیط اطراف خود توجه می کنیم. این می تواند به عنوان یک فعالیت مستقل عمل کند. با این حال، شما همچنین می توانید از آن به عنوان نقطه شروع قبل از انتقال تجربه به محیط های اعماق دریا در فعالیتی به نام "سمفونی تراوش سرد" استفاده کنید.

 

کلمات کلیدی:

آگاهی فضایی، گوش دادن، راه صدا پرسه، آلودگی صوتی.
تحت فشار
Authors: ماریچ فیلیپ , پوتو مارگریتا پائولا , پانیری جولیانا , آب نیکی محمد , همتی نژاد فرشته
Published: February 2024

تمرکز

برای درک و احساس اینکه چگونه فشار آب با عمق تغییر می کند.

 

اهداف یادگیری

در این فعالیت، دانش آموزان رابطه بین عمق و فشار آب را تشخیص خواهند داد. دانش‌آموزان می‌توانند در مورد اینکه چگونه شکل‌های حیات در اعماق دریا ممکن است تحت تأثیر فشارهای بالای آب در اکوسیستم‌هایشان قرار بگیرند، تأمل کنند.

 

کلید واژه ها

عمق، وزن، فشار.
مای اقیانوس منجمد شمالی
Authors: ماریچ فیلیپ , پوتو مارگریتا پائولا , پانیری جولیانا , آب نیکی محمد , همتی نژاد فرشته
Published: February 2024

تمرکز

برای درک اینکه دمای آب چقدر است و چرا برای زندگی در اقیانوس مهم است. چه عواملی بر دمای آب تأثیر می گذارد؟ (به عنوان مثال، نور خورشید، تابش خورشیدی، انتقال حرارت)

 

اهداف آموزشی

در این فعالیت، دانش آموزان یاد خواهند گرفت که دما عامل مهمی است که بر آب، کیفیت آب و تغییر خواص فیزیکی و شیمیایی آب تأثیر می گذارد.

 

واژه‌های کلیدی

دما، تابش خورشید، انتقال حرارت، تغییرات و محرک‌ها، پیامدها.
مجسمه سازی روزنه داران
Authors: ماریچ فیلیپ , پوتو مارگریتا پائولا , زیمرمن هایکه جین , پانیری جولیانا , آب نیکی محمد , همتی نژاد فرشته
Published: February 2024

تمرکز

برای درک از تنوع زیستی اقیانوس منجمد شمالی و کف اقیانوس، با تمرکز ویژه بر گونه های کمتر شناخته شده مانند روزنه داران.

 

اهداف یادگیری

در این فعالیت، دانش‌آموزان (یک، دو یا چند) گونه روزنه داران را که در یا نزدیک به کف اقیانوس منجمد شمالی زندگی می‌کنند شناسایی کرده و با استفاده از خاک رس مدل‌سازی، مجسمه‌سازی می‌کنند.

 

کلید واژه ها

روزنه داران، کفزی، شناور (پلانکتونیک).
رسوب گذاری
Authors: ماریچ فیلیپ , پوتو مارگریتا پائولا , پانیری جولیانا , آب نیکی محمد , همتی نژاد فرشته
Published: February 2024

تمرکز

برای درک نقش رسوب در ایجاد شرایط منحصر به فرد اکوسیستم های کف اقیانوس.

 

اهداف یادگیری

با این فعالیت، دانش‌آموزان به درک اساسی از چگونگی ته نشینی رسوبات در کف اقیانوس (رسوب گذاری) و شکل ظاهری آن دست خواهند یافت.

 

کلید واژه ها

ته نشینی، رسوبی، آواری، دریایی.
Alteration of bacterial community composition in the sediments of an urban artificial river caused by sewage discharge
Authors: Li Yishi , Lou Daoming , Zhou Xiaofei , Zhuang Xuchao , Wang Chuandong
Published: February 2024

Background

Urbanization has an ecological and evolutionary effect on urban microorganisms. Microorganisms are fundamental to ecosystem functions, such as global biogeochemical cycles, biodegradation and biotransformation of pollutants, and restoration and maintenance of ecosystems. Changes in microbial communities can disrupt these essential processes, leading to imbalances within ecosystems. Studying the impact of human activities on urban microbes is critical to protecting the environment, human health, and overall urban sustainability.

Methods

In this study, bacterial communities in the sediments of an urban artificial river were profiled by sequencing the 16S rRNA V3-V4 region. The samples collected from the eastern side of the Jiusha River were designated as the JHE group and were marked by persistent urban sewage discharges. The samples collected on the western side of the Jiusha River were categorized as the JHW group for comparative analysis.

Results

The calculated alpha diversity indices indicated that the bacterial community in the JHW group exhibited greater species diversity and evenness than that of the JHE group. Proteobacteria was the most dominant phylum between the two groups, followed by Bacteroidota. The relative abundance of Proteobacteria and Bacteroidota accumulated in the JHE group was higher than in the JHW group. Therefore, the estimated biomarkers in the JHE group were divided evenly between Proteobacteria and Bacteroidota, whereas the biomarkers in the JHW group mainly belonged to Proteobacteria. The Sulfuricurvum, MND1, and Thiobacillus genus were the major contributors to differences between the two groups. In contrast to JHW, JHE exhibited higher enzyme abundances related to hydrolases, oxidoreductases, and transferases, along with a prevalence of pathways associated with carbohydrate, energy, and amino acid metabolisms. Our study highlights the impact of human-induced water pollution on microorganisms in urban environments.
Dexamethasone-induced Singultus Post-dental Extraction: A Case Report
Authors: Lele Priya , Yewale Manasi , Bhosale Nishita , Vijayraghvan Vasantha , Pharne Pooja
Published: February 2024

Hiccups are involuntary reflexes, usually habitual and self-limiting in nature, experienced by the majority of people at some point in their lives. Persistent hiccups induced by pharmacotherapeutic agents, such as steroids, are considered minor complications. They can cause extreme discomfort and significantly lower the patient’s quality of life. This is the first report of persistent severe hiccups after Dexamethasone intramuscular administration in Indian patients post-dental treatment. Hereby, the authors present a case of a 50-year-old male patient with a medical history of Rheumatoid arthritis who was administered 8 mg of dexamethasone Intramuscular (IM) post-extraction. The patient was extremely restless when he reported to the dental clinic, as he had developed persistent hiccups post-24 hours. Neither the home remedies by the patient nor the topical application gel prescribed by the clinician were successful. As intractable hiccups continued for upto 34 hours, immediate action was taken, and the patient was referred to the physician. Pharmacological agents were administered, and the patient’s hiccups resolved completely by 42 hours. At the 1-week postoperative appointment, counseling was given on the suspected drug-induced cause of the transient hiccups for his future benefit. There is limited literature in dentistry on the management of drug-induced hiccups, despite the fact that clinicians routinely prescribe steroids postoperatively. The present case report comprehensively discusses the treatment algorithm for managing patients with drug-induced hiccups. Further studies are necessary to investigate the role of potential biomarkers for indicating the susceptibility of patients likely to develop severe persistent hiccups post-administration of steroids.
Prevalence of vertebral alterations and the effects of calcium and vitamin D supplementation on calcium metabolism and bone mineral density after gastrectomy
Authors: Glatzle J , Piert M , Meile T , Besenthal I , Schäfer J F , Königsrainer A , Zittel T T
Published: March 2005

Background

Bone disease is common after gastrectomy, resulting in decreased bone mass and an increased risk of fracture. No proven therapy is currently available.

Methods

Serum markers of calcium metabolism in 98 patients after partial or total gastrectomy were compared with those in 30 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Patients with disorders of calcium metabolism were investigated by conventional radiography and single-energy computed tomography of the spine. Forty patients participated in a 1-year follow-up study to investigate the effects of vitamin D and calcium supplementation on calcium metabolism and bone mineral density.

Results

Altered serum markers of calcium and phosphate metabolism were observed in 77 (79 per cent) of 98 patients. Sixty (79 per cent) of these had vertebral alterations. Vertebral fractures were detected in 22 patients, grade I vertebral deformities in 50 patients, grade II deformities in 22 patients and osteopenia (Z-score less than − 1) in 30 patients. Calcium and vitamin D supplementation resulted in an increase in 25-hydroxy-vitamin D (P < 0·001), 1,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D (P = 0·048) and osteocalcin (P = 0·045), whereas levels of parathyroid hormone were decreased (P = 0·007). Bone mineral density did not change over time.

Conclusion

Disturbances of calcium and bone metabolism are common after gastrectomy. Calcium and vitamin D supplementation normalized levels of markers of calcium metabolism and might have prevented age-related bone mass loss, although it did not increase bone mineral density after 1 year.
Chymotrypsin‐like proteases contribute to human monocytic THP‐1 cell as well as human microglial neurotoxicity
Authors: Klegeris Andis , McGeer Patrick L.
Published: March 2005

Activated microglia have been observed in various neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and multiple sclerosis. They may exacerbate neuronal damage by secreting various toxic molecules. The list of candidate toxins includes proteases. Since it is currently not known which, if any, proteases are involved in human microglia neurotoxicity, we studied the effects of a panel of protease inhibitors on the toxicity of cell‐free supernatants of stimulated human microglia and THP‐1 monocytic cells to human SH‐SY5Y cells. Five structurally distinct inhibitors that are known to inhibit chymotrypsin‐like proteases were partially protective. They included chymostatin, AEBSF (Pefabloc SC), α1‐antichymotrypsin, bromoenol lactone, and 3,4‐dichloroisocoumarin. The data suggest that certain protease inhibitors could inhibit microglial‐mediated toxicity. They might represent a novel class of drugs with benefit in diseases where overactivity of microglia contributes to the pathogenesis. ©2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Thyroid hormone can increase estrogen-mediated transcription from a consensus estrogen response element in neuroblastoma cells
Authors: Zhao Xing , Lorenc Heather , Stephenson Heather , Wang Yunjiao Joy , Witherspoon Dawn , Katzenellenbogen Benita , Pfaff Donald , Vasudevan Nandini
Published: March 2005

Thyroid hormones (T) and estrogens (E) are nuclear receptor ligands with at least two molecular mechanisms of action: (
i
) relatively slow genomic effects, such as the regulation of transcription by cognate T receptors (TR) and E receptors (ER); and (
ii
) relatively rapid nongenomic effects, such as kinase activation and calcium release initiated at the membrane by putative membrane receptors. Genomic and nongenomic effects were thought to be disparate and independent. However, in a previous study using a two-pulse paradigm in neuroblastoma cells, we showed that E acting at the membrane could potentiate transcription from an E-driven reporter gene in the nucleus. Because both T and E can have important effects on mood and cognition, it is possible that the two hormones can act synergistically. In this study, we demonstrate that early actions of T via TRα1 and TRβ1 can potentiate E-mediated transcription (genomic effects) from a consensus E response element (ERE)-driven reporter gene in transiently transfected neuroblastoma cells. Such potentiation was reduced by inhibition of mitogen-activated protein kinase. Using phosphomutants of ERα, we also show that probable mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphorylation sites on the ERα, the serines at position 167 and 118, are important in TRβ1-mediated potentiation of ERα-induced transactivation. We suggest that crosstalk between T and E includes potential interactions through both nuclear and membrane-initiated molecular mechanisms of hormone signaling.
Spinoza's Extended Substance
Authors: Cover J. A.
Published: March 2005

“Spinoza's Extended Substance: Cartesian and Leibnizian Reflections” This essay examines Woolhouse's interpretation of Spinoza's extended substance. According to that interpretation, the extended substance is a quasi‐Platonic form, and Spinoza's substance is not actually extended. This essay argues that the burden of defending such an interpretation is very great indeed, and requires that we read Spinoza's understanding of Descartes and Leibniz's understanding of Spinoza in unusual and awkward ways.
Leibniz on Consciousness and Self‐Consciousness
Authors: Gennaro Rocco J.
Published: March 2005

“Leibniz on Consciousness and Self‐Consciousness” It is argued that Leibniz held a version of the so‐called “higher‐order thought” (HOT) theory of consciousness. According to this theory, what makes a mental state conscious is that it is accompanied by a thought (or awareness) that one is in that state. For example, in elaborating on his theory of monads, Leibniz explains that an unconscious perception becomes conscious when it is accompanied by an apperception of it. Apperception is best understood as a form of self‐consciousness, and reflection is best understood as a sophisticated form of apperception. With these crucial terminological distinctions in place, it is then argued that treating Leibniz as a HOT theorist can help us understand how he did indeed hold that animals apperceive even if most of them are incapable of sophisticated forms of reflection and rationality.
Mary in Luke 2:41–52
Authors: Kreitzer Beth
Published: March 2005

This chapter explores Lutheran sermons on Mary in chapter 2 of Luke’s gospel. Mary’s role as a parent is emphasized. She shows parents that they should raise their children lovingly, be good examples, bring them to church, and treat them as treasures from God. It was less important for authors to use sermons to tutor wives and mothers in appropriate conduct, than it was to promote peace and harmony between rulers and subjects, the pastor and his congregation, and parents and children.
The Wedding at Cana
Authors: Kreitzer Beth
Published: March 2005

This chapter explores Lutheran sermons on chapter 2 of John’s gospel, which recounts the story of Jesus’ first miracle. Mary’s actions in this text receive both positive and negative attention. She is promoted as a good example of the virtues of faith, hope and love. However, her attempt to influence Christ’s actions in “divine matters” is seen as a mistake, and at worse, human weakness or even sin. Christ’s harsh response to Mary emphasizes that neither Mary nor any other saint can serve as an intercessor with Christ.
The Power of Creativity
Authors: Cooke Bernard
Published: March 2005

Though creation in the strict sense is beyond humans’ power, they can approximate it to a limited extent by what is known as ‘creativity’. Through inventiveness and artistic production, humans can powerfully influence human life. Genuine artistic creations – paintings, sculpture, music, dance – enlist the power of beauty to sensitive humans and enrich their enjoyment of life; however, creativity can also lead to the social engineering of Nazism. The creative power remains mysterious and ambiguous; it needs to be empowered and guided by the Spirit of God.
Richard Hooker and Reformed Theology
Authors: Voak Nigel
Published: March 2005

For many years, Richard Hooker (1554–1600) has traditionally been seen as the first systematic defender of Anglicanism, setting out in Elizabeth I’s reign the English Church’s position as a via media between Roman Catholicism and Reformed Protestantism. In the last twenty years, however, the old consensus has crumbled and revisionists have argued with increasing strength that Hooker should be viewed as a thoroughly Reformed theologian – a defender of the Elizabethan Reformed consensus against radicals like the puritans. Dr Voak takes issue with this interpretation, arguing that although Hooker started out in the Reformed mainstream, in his later writings he became highly critical of a wide range of fundamentally Reformed positions.

Taking as his starting point philosophical principles underlying Hooker’s theology, such as the freedom of the will and the concomitant resistibility of grace, Dr Voak moves on to consider Hooker’s views on such matters as original sin and human nature, justification and sanctification, the doctrine of merit and the religious authority of scripture, reason, and tradition. The book ends with an examination of Hooker’s manuscripts written shortly before his death, in which he defends his theology from the charge that it is contrary to the Thirty-Nine Articles.

Throughout, Hooker’s writings are carefully placed in the context of contemporary Reformed theology, and Dr Voak accounts for how Hooker was able to advance criticism of this religious tradition in Elizabethan England under the cloak of an attack on puritanism. Hooker emerges as a conservative who paradoxically came to occupy a remarkably individual, innovative position at a time of transition in the English Church.
Reason, Will, and Common Grace
Authors: Voak Nigel
Published: March 2005

Begins the second part of the book, examining Hooker’s views on the relation of grace to the human reason and will, in this case from the perspective of non-Christians, who are not in receipt of sanctifying grace. This permits a study of Hooker’s views on human nature, natural law, and original sin, and it is argued that although Hooker accepts that humanity in its natural state after the Fall is totally depraved, through his belief that humans are generally aided by common grace he is able to adopt a relatively optimistic view of humanity’s ability to know and to obey natural law, and to accept the religious authority of reason in religious as well as civil affairs. Hooker’s views are contextualised in the Reformed theology of his day, and it is shown how the nature of the earlier Admonitions controversy helped Hooker in the development of such ideas, and to criticise fundamental aspects of the Reformed tradition through attacking presbyterianism and puritanism. Finally, examines how a lack of understanding of Hooker’s views on common grace has led to critical misinterpretation of his work in the past.
Apprenticeship in Antioch
Authors: Murphy-O'Connor Jerome
Published: March 2005

Why Barnabas was sent to Antioch, and why he recruited Paul. The problems of table-fellowship for Jewish and Gentile believers in Antioch. The Roman road system in Asia Minor as arteries through which the gospel flowed in a mission shared by Paul and Barnabas. Travel conditions were harsh and unforgiving, and gave rise to a key element in Paul’s theology (‘Sin’).
Third Sector–Third Way: Comparative Perspectives and Policy Reflections
Authors: Anheier Helmut
Published: March 2005

Drawing upon a variety of analyses, this chapter constructs a taxonomy of competing approaches to inequality, social cohesion, and citizenship and proceeds to locate the Third Way as a hybrid approach. While the Third Way strongly embraces elements of market liberalism, it also exhibits a mixture of social democratic, communitarian, and moral authoritarian features. The Third Way approach to policies for social inclusion is traced through a discussion of the European Union’s Social Inclusion Strategy, the development of ‘workfare’ type policies, and in the specific context of new labour policies in Britain. The ambiguous consequences of such policies are examined in relation to measures of inequality, poverty, and social exclusion. The chapter concludes that the Third Way maybe more than a pragmatic compromize, but whether it maybe capable of ameliorating the dislocating social effects of a market driven economic agenda remains uncertain.
Partakers of the Divine Nature
Authors: Keating Daniel A.
Published: March 2005

Aims to investigate what Cyril means by the phrase, ‘partakers of the divine nature’ (2 Pet. 1:4), in the hope that this will provide us with a key for unlocking his understanding of the extent and limit of our kinship with God and its relation to Christ’s unique sonship. Does Cyril’s account of our participation in the divine nature threaten to blur the distinction between the Creator and creation, between things divine and things human? Focusses especially on the concept of participation in Cyril and concludes that Cyril presents us with a rather complex christology in which the incarnate Christ, as genuinely occupying the common frontier of humanity and divinity, in one sense is, and in another sense is not, the pattern for our participation in the divine life.
France: A New World of Welfare for New Social Risks?
Authors: Palier Bruno , Mandin Christelle
Published: March 2005

In France, new social risk policies were not highly developed with the exception of the established tradition of childcare. Reforms were initially delayed by the strongly entrenched old social risk system. By the late 1980s, it was accepted across the political spectrum that the existing settlement was not sustainable. New policies with a stronger emphasis on means testing and incentives and on finance through tax rather than social insurance were introduced and these have since become more significant. The emergence of modernising policies in the CFDT trade union and the role played by the employers association MEDEF were important in setting the context for change.
Mark the Monk
Authors: Plested Marcus
Published: March 2005

A close examination of the Macarian legacy in the work of Mark the Monk. The Chapter focuses on themes such as the Fall and its consequences, baptism, the spiritual struggle, sin and grace, exegesis, and Christology. Mark is shown to be a thoughtful and, at times, appropriately critical disciple of the Macarian teaching. The fact that he draws directly on Macarius for much of his anti-Messalian programme further emphasises the extent to which Macarius is to be seen as a critic and reformer of the nascent Messalian tendency.
A Development-Focused Allocation of the Special Drawing Rights
Authors: Aryeetey Ernest
Published: March 2005

The original purpose of the Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) was to increase international liquidity, but here the emphasis is on the potential role of SDR creation in providing funds for development finance. The chapter describes the historical development of ‘regular’ SDRs, including their purpose and the problems associated with their creation and allocation. It then introduces the recent proposals for development‐oriented SDRs, and analyses these proposals with a focus on the arguments for and against them. Next, the mechanisms proposed for the creation of development SDRs are discussed, including the institutional and structural changes in international finance that may support their creation. The concluding section of the chapter assesses the effects of development SDRs on the resource situation in poor (developing) countries and how they will be perceived.
Effects of vasopressin and long pulse–low frequency gastric electrical stimulation on gastric emptying, gastric and intestinal myoelectrical activity and symptoms in dogs
Authors: Xu X. , Brining D. L. , Chen J. D. Z.
Published: March 2005

Abstract  The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of vasopressin and long pulse–low frequency gastric electrical stimulation (GES) on gastric emptying, gastric and intestinal myoelectrical activity and symptoms in dogs. The study was performed in eight healthy female dogs implanted with four pairs of gastric serosal electrodes and two pairs of small bowel serosal electrodes, and a duodenal fistula for the assessment of gastric emptying. Each dog was studied in three sessions on three separate days in a randomized order with recordings of gastric and small bowel slow waves. Each study session consisted of 30‐min baseline, 30‐min stimulation and 30‐min recovery period. In sessions 1 and 2, infusion of either saline or vasopressin (0.75 U kg−1 in 30 mL saline instilled in 30 min) was given during the second 30‐min period. The protocol of session 3 was the same as session 2 except long pulse–low frequency GES was performed during the second 30‐min period. It was found that: (i) Vasopressin significantly delayed gastric emptying 30 and 45 min after meal and GES did not improve the vasopressin induced delayed gastric emptying; (ii) Vasopressin induced gastric dysrhythmias and GES significantly improved vasopressin induced gastric dysrhythmia; (iii) Vasopressin also induced intestinal slow wave abnormalities but GES had no effect on vasopressin induced small bowel dysrhythmia; (iv) Vasopressin induced symptoms and behaviours suggestive of nausea that were not improved by GES. We conclude that: (i) Vasopressin delays gastric emptying and induces gastric and small bowel dysrhythmias and symptoms in the fed state, and (ii) long pulse–low frequency GES normalizes vasopressin induced gastric dysrhythmia with no improvement in gastric emptying or symptoms.