bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Moho depths beneath the European Alps: a homogeneously processed map and receiver functions database
Authors: Michailos Konstantinos , Hetényi György , Scarponi Matteo , Stipčević Josip , Bianchi Irene , Bonatto Luciana , Czuba Wojciech , Di Bona Massimo , Govoni Aladino , Hannemann Katrin , Janik Tomasz , Kalmár Dániel , Kind Rainer , Link Frederik , Lucente Francesco Pio , Monna Stephen , Montuori Caterina , Mroczek Stefan , Paul Anne , Piromallo Claudia , Plomerová Jaroslava , Rewers Julia , Salimbeni Simone , Tilmann Frederik , Środa Piotr , Vergne Jérôme ,   the AlpArray-PACASE Working Group
Published: November 2022

Abstract. Since the 1980s a number of active and passive seismic experiments have revealed significant information about the Earth’s crust in the broader European Alpine region. In this paper, we use seismic waveform data from the AlpArray Seismic Network and three other temporary seismic networks, to perform receiver function (RF) calculations and time−to−depth migration to update the knowledge of the Moho discontinuity beneath the broader European Alps. In particular, we set up a 5 homogeneous processing scheme to compute RFs using the time-domain iterative deconvolution method, and apply consistent quality control to yield 107,633 high-quality RFs. We then perform time−to−depth migration in a newly implemented 3D spherical coordinate system and using a European-scale reference P and S wave velocity model. This approach, together with the dense data coverage, provide us with a 3D migrated volume, from which we present migrated profiles that reflect the first-order crustal thickness structure. We create a detailed Moho map by manually picking the discontinuity in a set of orthogonal 10 profiles covering the entire area. We make the RF dataset, the software for the full processing workflow, as well as the Moho map, openly available; these open-access datasets and results will allow other researchers to build on the current study.
The Met Office operational wave forecasting system: the evolution of the Regional and Global models
Authors: Valiente Nieves G. , Saulter Andrew , Gomez Breogan , Bunney Christopher , Li Jian-Guo , Pequignet Christine , Palmer Tamzin
Published: November 2022

Abstract. The Met Office operational wave modelling system is an operational forecast system run four times daily at the Met Office to provide global and regional forecasts up to 7 days ahead. The underpinning model uses a recent development branch of the spectral wave model WAVEWATCH III® (version 7.12) that includes a number of updates developed at the Met Office. Code contributions include the Spherical Multiple-Cell (SMC) grid, rotated pole grid formulation for mid latitudes, enhancements to OASIS coupling and updates to the netCDF postprocessing. Here we document and describe the technical details behind the Met Office operational system of WAVEWATCH III® configurations with a view to further development. These include a global forecast deterministic model (GS512L4EUK) and two regional models nested one-way covering the Northwest (NW) European shelf and UK waters (AMM15SL2) as well as an Atlantic wave ensemble (AS512L4EUK). GS512L4EUK and AS512L4EUK are based on a four-tier SMC 25-12-6-3 km grid refinement where currents are not included. AMM15SL2 is run operationally both as a standalone forced model and as the wave component of a two-way ocean-wave coupled operational system FOAM-AMM15. The AMM15SL2 baseline configuration is based on a two-tier SMC grid that focuses on the shelf seas around the United Kingdom (3 km resolution) where coastal cells have 1.5 km resolution and wave-current interaction is included. Results from a 2-year hindcast demonstrate the ability of the baseline configurations to reproduce both in-situ and satellite wave observations. Model-observations correlation is above 0.94–0.96 with standard deviations of differences that correspond to maximum 13–25 % of the observed mean bulk wave diagnostics, demonstrating the quality and accuracy of the system. Evidence of resolution dependent differences in wave growth was observed, leading to slightly overestimated significant wave heights when replicating coastal mid-range conditions by AMM15SL2, and better suited to replicate the extremes. Additionally, the inclusion of wave-current interaction in AMM15SL2 tends to larger spread on the observation-model differences. Hence, although a positive impact of the surface currents is not always shown in the overall statistics of the significant wave height, the addition of currents helps to significantly improve the prediction of the wave direction and period near the coast (>20 % improvement), which has implications in beach safety, risk to coastal overtopping and shoreline evolution. Future system developments such as the use of sea point wind forcing, the optimisation of the models in line with model resolution, the utilisation of SMC multigrid and data assimilation are discussed.
Experiments with the modified Rotating Shallow Water model (modRSW, v.1.0): assessing the relevance for convective-scale data assimilation research
Authors: Kent Thomas , Cantarello Luca , Inverarity Gordon , Tobias Steven , Bokhove Onno
Published: November 2022

Abstract. Following the development of the modified rotating shallow water model (modRSW), which includes simplified dynamics of convection and precipitation, we present the results of a series of idealised forecast-assimilation experiments to demonstrate its relevance for data assimilation research at convective scales, focusing on its ability to imitate an operational Numerical Weather Prediction system. We address in a rigorous manner how to ascertain whether an idealised model is relevant for data assimilation research by comparing our modRSW model configuration – based on a twin-setting approach in which synthetic observations are assimilated hourly into a Deterministic Ensemble Kalman filter – with the most common properties of an operational system. We demonstrate forecast-assimilation experiments that produce values of error growth rates (6–9 hours) and observational influence on the analyses (around 30 %) comparable to those found in operational systems. In addition, we provide a description of the approach we took to reach a well-tuned configuration by comparing the ensemble spread with the Root Mean Square Error of the ensemble mean, and examining the Continuous Ranked Probability Score. We also provide subjective assessments of forecasts at different lead times.
Facilitating the structural characterisation of non-canonical amino acids in biomolecular NMR
Authors: Kuschert Sarah , Stroet Martin , Chin Yanni Ka-Yan , Conibear Anne Clair , Jia Xinying , Lee Thomas , Bartling Christian Reinhard Otto , Strømgaard Kristian , Güntert Peter , Rosengren Karl Johan , Mark Alan Edward , Mobli Mehdi
Published: November 2022

Abstract. Peptides and proteins containing non-canonical amino acids (ncAAs) are a large and important class of biopolymers. They include non-ribosomally synthesised peptides, post-translationally modified proteins, expressed or synthesised proteins containing unnatural amino acids, and peptides and proteins that are chemically modified. Here, we describe a general procedure for generating atomic descriptions required to incorporate ncAAs within popular NMR structure determination software such as CYANA, CNS, Xplor-NIH and ARIA. This procedure is made publicly available via the existing Automated Topology Builder (ATB) server (atb.uq.edu.au) with all submitted ncAAs stored in a dedicated database. The described procedure also includes a general method for linking of sidechains of amino acids from CYANA templates. To ensure compatibility with other systems, atom names comply with IUPAC guidelines. In addition to describing the workflow, 3D models of complex natural products generated by CYANA are presented, including vancomycin. In order to demonstrate the manner in which the templates for ncAAs generated by the ATB can be used in practice we use a combination of CYANA and CNS to solve the structure of a synthetic peptide designed to disrupt Alzheimer-related protein-protein interactions. Automating the generation of structural templates for ncAAs will extend the utility of NMR spectroscopy to studies of more complex biomolecules, with applications in the rapidly growing fields of synthetic and chemical biology. The procedures we outline can also be used to standardise the creation of structural templates for any amino acid and thus have the potential to impact structural biology more generally.
Brief communication: Critical infrastructure impacts of the 2021 mid-July western European flood event
Authors: Koks Elco E. , van Ginkel Kees C. H. , van Marle Margreet J. E. , Lemnitzer Anne
Published: November 2022

Abstract. Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands were hit by extreme
precipitation and flooding in July 2021. This brief communication provides
an overview of the impacts to large-scale critical infrastructure systems
and how recovery has progressed. The results show that Germany and Belgium
were particularly affected, with many infrastructure assets severely damaged
or completely destroyed. Impacts range from completely destroyed bridges and
sewage systems, to severely damaged schools and hospitals. We find that
(large-scale) risk assessments, often focused on larger (river) flood
events, do not find these local, but severe, impacts due to critical
infrastructure failures. This may be the result of limited availability of
validation material. As such, this brief communication not only will help to
better understand how critical infrastructure can be affected by flooding,
but also can be used as validation material for future flood risk
assessments.
Surging of a Hudson Strait Scale Ice Stream: Subglacial hydrology matters but the process details don't
Authors: Drew Matthew , Tarasov Lev
Published: November 2022

Abstract. While subglacial hydrology is known to play a role in glacial dynamics on sub-annual to decadal scales, it remains unclear whether subglacial hydrology plays a critical role in ice sheet evolution on centennial or longer time-scales. Furthermore, several drainage topologies have been inferred but it is unclear which drainage topology is most applicable at the continental/glacial scale. More fundamentally, it is even unclear if the structural choice of subglacial hydrology truly matters for this context. Here we compare three subglacial hydrology topologies as to their contribution to surge behaviour for an idealized Hudson Strait like ice stream. We use the newly updated model BraHms2.0 and provide model verification tests. BraHms2.0 incorporates each of these systems: two process-based forms dominant in the literature (linked-cavity and poro-elastic) and a non-mass conserving zero-dimensional form (herein termed leaky-bucket) coupled to an ice sheet systems model (the Glacial Systems Model, GSM). We also assess the likely bounds on poorly constrained subglacial hydrology parameters and adopt an ensemble approach to study their impact and interactions within those bounds. We find that subglacial hydrology is an important system inductance for realistic ice stream surging but that the three formulations all exhibit similar surge behaviour. Even a detail as fundamental as mass conserving transport of subglacial water is not necessary for simulating a full range of surge frequency and amplitude. However, one difference is apparent: the combined positive and negative feedbacks of the linked-cavity system yields longer duration surges and a broader range of effective pressures than its poro-elastic and leaky-bucket counterparts.
Implementing spatially and temporally varying snow densities into the GlobSnow snow water equivalent retrieval
Authors: Venäläinen Pinja , Luojus Kari , Mortimer Colleen , Lemmetyinen Juha , Pulliainen Jouni , Takala Matias , Moisander Mikko , Zschenderlein Lina
Published: November 2022

Abstract. Snow water equivalent (SWE) is a valuable characteristic of snow cover, and it can be estimated using passive spaceborne radiometer measurements. The radiometer based GlobSnow SWE retrieval methodology, which assimilates weather station snow depth observations into the retrieval, has improved reliability and accuracy of SWE retrieval when compared to stand-alone radiometer SWE retrievals. To further improve the GlobSnow SWE retrieval methodology, we investigate implementing spatially and temporally varying snow densities into the retrieval procedure. Thus far, the GlobSnow SWE retrieval has used a constant snow density throughout the retrieval despite differing locations, snow depth or time of winter. This constant snow density is a known source of inaccuracy in the retrieval. Three different versions of spatially and temporally varying snow densities are tested over a 10-year period (2000–2009). These versions use two different spatial interpolation techniques, ordinary Kriging interpolation and inverse distance weighted regressing (IDWR). All versions were found to improve the SWE retrieval compared to the baseline GlobSnow v3.0 product although differences between versions are small. Overall, the best results were obtained by implementing IDWR interpolated densities into the algorithm, which reduced RMSE (Root Mean Square Error) and MAE (Mean Absolute Error) by about 4 mm and 5 mm when compared to the baseline GlobSnow product, respectively. Furthermore, implementing varying snow densities into the SWE retrieval improves the magnitude and seasonal evolution of the Northern Hemisphere snow mass estimate compared to the baseline product and a product post-processed with varying snow densities.
Generalized analytical body force model for actuator disc computations of wind turbines
Authors: Sørensen Jens Nørkær
Published: November 2022

Abstract. A new generalized analytical model for representing body forces in numerical actuator disc models of wind turbines is proposed and compared to results from a Blade Element Momentum (BEM) model. The model is an extension of a previously developed load model, which was based on the rotor disc being subject to a constant circulation, modified for tip and root effects, corresponding to an optimum design case. By adding a parabolic circulation distribution, corresponding to a solid-body approach of the flow in the near-wake, it is possible to take into account losses associated with off-design cases, corresponding to pitch regulation at high wind speeds. The advantage of the model is that it does not depend on any detailed knowledge concerning the actual wind turbine being analysed, but only requires information about the thrust coefficient and tip speed ratio. The model is validated for different wind turbines operating under a wide range of operating conditions. The comparisons show generally an excellent agreement with the BEM model even at very small thrust coefficients and tip speed ratios.
Editorial
Authors:   Brazilian Center for Mediation and Arbitration - CBMA, Ferreira Daniel , Schmidt Gustavo
Published: November 2022

Editorial
A victim-sensitive approach towards victim - Offender mediation in crimes: an analysis
Authors:   Tamil Nadu National Law University Trichy, Sahoo Golda
Published: November 2022

Victim-offender mediation has experienced significant recent growth. Such mediation is a by-product of restorative justice theory, which downplays the need of punishing perpetrators severely in favour of assisting victims in obtaining justice and closure. The UN Declaration on Basic Principles of Justice for the Victims of Crime and Abuse of Power, adopted in 1985, calls for the use of informal procedures, such as mediation, arbitration, and the adoption of indigenous practises, to settle disputes and offer reparations to crime victims.The results of using a victim-sensitive approach to mediation are examined in this research. It intends to highlight the expense of setting up and operating restorative justice programmes in relation with criminal justice, as well as the major ethical and professional concerns involved. While addressing a number of crucial challenges for criminal justice, the paper also places these findings within the expanding international academic and policy debates concerning restorative justice.
Regulation of Αlpha-Synuclein Gene (SNCA) by Epigenetic Modifier TET1 in Parkinson Disease
Authors: Guhathakurta Subhrangshu , Song Min Kyung , Basu Sambuddha , Je Goun , Cristovao Ana Clara , Kim Yoon-Seong
Published: November 2022

Purpose: Deregulation of SNCA encoding α-synuclein (α-SYN) has been associated with both the familial and sporadic forms of Parkinson disease (PD). Epigenetic regulation plays a crucial role in PD. The intron1 of SNCA harbors a large unmethylated CpG island. Ten-eleven translocation methylcytosine dioxygenase 1 (TET1), a CpG island binding protein, can repress gene expression by occupying hypomethylated CpG-rich promoters, and therefore SNCA could be a target for TET1. We investigated whether TET1 binds to SNCA-intron1 and regulates gene expression.Methods: The dopaminergic neuronal cell line, ReNcell VM, was used. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), real time-quantitative PCR, Western blot, dot-blot, and Chromatin immunoprecipitation were conducted. The substantia nigra tissues of postmortem PD samples were used to confirm the level of TET1 expression.Results: In the human dopaminergic cell line, ReNcell VM, overexpression of the DNA-binding domain of TET1 (TET1-CXXC) led to significant repression of α-SYN. On the contrary, knocking down of TET1 led to significantly higher expression of α-SYN. However, overexpression of the DNA-hydroxymethylating catalytic domain of TET1 failed to change the expression of α-SYN. Altogether, we showed that TET1 is a repressor for SNCA, and a CXXC domain of TET1 is the primary mediator for this repressive action independent of its hydroxymethylation activity. TET1 levels in PD patients are significantly lower than that in the controls.Conclusions: We identified that TET1 acts as a repressor for SNCA by binding the intron1 regions of the gene. As a high level of α-SYN is strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of PD, discovering a repressor for the gene encoding α-SYN is highly important for developing novel therapeutic strategies for the disease.
Striatal ZBTB16 Is Associated With Cognitive Deficits in Alzheimer Disease Mice
Authors: Lee Sangjoon , Kim Tae Kyoo , Choi Ji Eun , Kim Hye-Sun , Im Heh-In
Published: November 2022

Purpose: In Alzheimer disease (AD), brain regions such as the cortex and the hippocampus show abundant amyloid load which correlates with cognitive function decline. Prior to the significant development of AD pathophysiology, patients report the manifestation of neuropsychiatric symptoms, indicating a functional interplay between basal ganglia structures and hippocampal regions. Zinc finger and BTB domain-containing protein 16 (ZBTB16) is a transcription factor that controls the expression of downstream genes and the involvement of ZBTB16 in the striatum undergoing pathological aging in AD and the resulting behavioral phenotypes has not yet been explored.Methods: To study molecular alterations in AD pathogenesis, we analyzed the brain from amyloid precursor protein (APP)/ presenilin 1 (PS1) transgenic mice. The molecular changes in the striatal region of the brain were analyzed via the immunoblotting, and the quantitative RNA sequencing. The cognitive impairments of APP/PS1 mice were assessed via 3 behavioral tests: 3-chamber test, Y-maze test, and noble object recognition test. And multielectrode array experiments for the analysis of the neuronal activity of the striatum in APP/PS1 mice was performed.Results: We found that the alteration in ZBTB16 levels that occurred in the early ages of the pathologically aging striatum coalesces with the disruption of transcriptional dysregulation while causing social memory deficits, anxiety-like behavior. The early ZBTB16 knockdown treatment in the striatum of APP/PS1 mice rescued cognition that continued into later age.Conclusions: This study demonstrates that perturbation of transcriptional regulation of ZBTB16 during pathological aging may influence cognitive impairments and reveals a potent approach to targeting the transcriptional regulation of the striatum for the treatment of AD.
Quantitative Sequencing Analysis of the Striatal Transcriptome in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Kim Tae Kyoo , Lee Sangjoon , Im Heh-In
Published: November 2022

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to analyze the transcriptomic changes in the striatum of amyloid precursor protein/presenilin 1 (APP/PS1) transgenic mice and uncover its association with the methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) mediated-changes in striatal epigenetic signature during Alzheimer disease (AD) pathological progression.Methods: To observe transcriptomic alterations in the striatum before the onset of cognitive impairment in APP/PS1 mice, quantitative 3’mRNA sequencing was performed with RNA extracted from the striatum of 6-month-old and 12-month-old wildtype and APP/PS1 mice. In addition, chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing was conducted with the DNA from wildtype and APP/PS1 mice of the same age as aforementioned. For transcriptomic analysis, comparison terms were constructed based on aging and transgene expression—normal-aging (12-month-old wildtype/6-month-old wildtype), early-AD (6-month-old APP/PS1/6-month-old wildtype), and late-AD (12-month-old APP/PS1/6-month-old wildtype). To compare the changes in biological pathways and networks, we analyzed gene lists from each comparison term via bioinformatics tools including DAVID (Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery), STRING (Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins), and SynGO (Synaptic Gene Ontologies). Furthermore, to assume the effect MeCP2 in AD pathological conditions may have on the transcriptome regulation, analysis of the common genes from Quant-Seq and MeCP2-ChIP-Seq was performed.Results: Enriched pathways including immune system and inflammatory response were confirmed in normal- aging and lateAD, respectively. In particular, enriched pathways of gene expression regulation, transcriptional regulation, and protein catabolic pathways were found to be significantly altered in early-AD. MeCP2-bound genes that were significantly altered in the transcriptome were suggested to be target genes that have a role in the striatum of the early-stage AD model.Conclusions: This study confirmed that the alteration of the striatal transcriptomic profile in APP/PS1 mice was involved with several biological pathways. Additionally, comparative analysis of the transcriptomic changes and the MeCP2 bound regions found that a group of differentially expressed genes may be regulated under the epigenetic control of MeCP2.
Brain Region-Dependent Alternative Splicing of Alzheimer Disease (AD)-Risk Genes Is Associated With Neuropathological Features in AD
Authors: Kim Sara , Han Seonggyun , Cho Soo-ah , Nho Kwangsik , Koh Insong , Lee Younghee
Published: November 2022

Purpose: Alzheimer disease (AD) is one of the most complex diseases and is characterized by AD-related neuropathological features, including accumulation of amyloid-β plaques and tau neurofibrillary tangles. Dysregulation of alternative splicing (AS) contributes to these features, and there is heterogeneity in features across brain regions between AD patients, leading to different severity and progression rates; however, brain region-specific AS mechanisms still remain unclear. Therefore, we aimed to systemically investigate AS in multiple brain regions of AD patients and how they affect clinical features.Methods: We analyzed RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) data obtained from brain regions (frontal and temporal) of AD patients. Reads were mapped to the hg19 reference genome using the STAR aligner, and exon skipping (ES) rates were estimated as percent spliced in (PSI) by rMATs. We focused on AD-risk genes discovered by genome-wide association studies, and accordingly evaluated associations between PSI of skipped exons in AD-risk genes and Braak stage and plaque density mean (PM) for each brain region. We also integrated whole-genome sequencing data of the ascertained samples with RNA-Seq data to identify genetic regulators of feature-associated ES.Results: We identified 26 and 41 ES associated with Braak stage in frontal and temporal regions, respectively, and 10 and 50 ES associated with PM. Among those, 10 were frontal-specific (CLU and NTRK2), 65 temporal-specific (HIF1A and TRPC4AP), and 26 shared ES (APP) that accompanied functional Gene Ontology terms, including axonogenesis in shared-ES genes. We further identified genetic regulators that account for 44 ES (44% of the total). Finally, we present as a case study the systematic regulation of an ES in APP, which is important in AD pathogenesis.Conclusions: This study provides new insights into brain region-dependent AS regulation of the architecture of AD-risk genes that contributes to AD pathologies, ultimately allowing identification of a treatment target and region-specific biomarkers for AD.
Surgical Options for Physiological Treatment of Aortic Root Dilatation Either Isolated or Associated with Aortic Valve Disease
Authors:   Department of Cardiac Surgery and Cardiology, Hesperia Hospital, Modena, Italy, Stefanelli Guglielmo , Chiurlia Emilio ,   Department of Cardiology, University Hospitals, Modena, Italy, Sgura Fabio ,   Department of Cardiology, University Hospitals, Modena, Italy, Longo Massimo ,   Department of Cardiac Surgery and Cardiology, Hesperia Hospital, Modena, Italy, Weltert Luca ,   Department of Cardiac Surgery, European Hospital, Roma, Italy
Published: November 2022

Patients affected by severe aortic root pathology require an operation to replace the dilated aortic root and repair or replace the aortic valve, which is very frequently involved in the disease. Among the surgical options available for aortic root replacement, the Bentall operation and the David aortic valve reimplantation procedure are the most commonly used by surgeons. This article provides an overview of the Bio-Bentall and David operations. It illustrates their surgical details and discusses the correct indications for both procedures to achieve excellent long-term outcomes. Finally, the authors present their experience with the physiologic treatment of aortic root pathology by using stentless Bio-conduits and David reimplantation in a cohort of patients with long-term follow-up. A comparative analysis of early and late results along with an evaluation of possible benefits and drawbacks related to each technique concluded that both procedures were effective in correcting the aortic root pathology, and the results were adequate and stable over time. Since hemodynamic performance was more improved after the David operation, it should be preferred, whenever feasible, in younger and active patients.
Des solidarités numériques en action : le soutien aux étudiants et aux étudiantes utilisant des environnements numériques d’apprentissage en milieu collégial
Authors: Alexandre Marie , Roy Jacques , Bernatchez Jean , Fournier Dubé Naomie , Lahaie Hélène
Published: November 2022

Cet article rend compte des résultats d’une enquête par questionnaire réalisée auprès de 51 étudiantes et étudiants inscrits à l’hiver 2021 dans quatre programmes de formation du Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Îles. Une revue des écrits scientifiques décrit d’abord les besoins des personnes apprenantes en contexte de formation à distance, notamment en lien avec la motivation, les interactions à distance et les environnements numériques d’apprentissage. La méthodologie de l’enquête est exposée. Les résultats de l’enquête sont présentés. Une discussion s’engage entre les données récoltées et les écrits scientifiques au regard des caractéristiques des étudiants et des étudiantes et de leurs relations avec les personnes enseignantes, le milieu scolaire et les modes d’apprentissage. Deux aspects de la solidarité numérique en action sont mis en évidence : l’accessibilité à des formations qualifiantes et l’engagement à la réussite éducative. En conclusion est rappelée l’importance des initiatives porteuses de solidarités comme celle du soutien aux personnes apprenantes en contexte numérique.
THE EVOLUTION OF LEFTIST POLITICS IN KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA
Authors:   Pakistan Study Center, University of Peshawar, Peshawar Pakistan, Ayaz Mohammad , Islam Fakhr-ul- ,   Pakistan Study Center, University of Peshawar, Peshawar Pakistan
Published: November 2022

This paper seeks to explore the history of the evolution of leftist politics in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan, which underwent a long process of transformation. Beginning with anti-colonial sentiments of opposing the British imperialism in undivided India, the revolutionary struggle fused with Pan-Islamism during the Khilafat movement and finally came into direct contact with Bolshevik ideology at the end of Hijra (travel) to Afghanistan and beyond. It is important to note that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and recently merged districts of former FATA had played an important role in the espionage and export of communist ideology into British India. It is also worth mentioning that Communist Party of India (CPI) viewed the right of self-determination as genuine right of the Muslim and supported the establishment of Pakistan by many ways. The leadership of CPI urged communists to support Muslim League (ML) candidates in 1946 General Elections which is considered the basis of Pakistan movement and many of them like Mian Iftikhar-ud-Din have joined ML It is therefore interesting to investigate the evolution and development of leftist politics in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan, so that to locate the social and political history of its gradual developments. Keywords: Pan-Islamism, revolutionary, anti-colonial, communist, nationalist, NWFP, progressive
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN TEACHERS’ PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND THEIR TEACHING PERFORMANCE AT SECONDARY SCHOOL LEVEL
Authors:   Department of Education, Virtual University of Pakistan, Kiran Ayesha , Arshad Fareeha ,   Department of Education, Virtual University of Pakistan, Rizwan Shafaq ,   Kinnaird College for Women, Lahore, Pakistan
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between teachers’ professional developments and their teaching performance at secondary school level. For this purpose, four objectives were formulated. This study was quantitative in nature; correlational design was used to investigate the relationship between studied variables. Population of the study was all public secondary schools of district Lahore. Proportionate stratified random sampling technique was used to select 30 schools and 30 secondary teachers were selected from each school by using purposive sampling technique who had attended teaching trainings. At the next stage, 14 students under one teacher were selected using random number table so total 400 students were selected for study. Two Questionnaires were developed, one for the teachers and other for students. Close ended questionnaires were developed by considering the nature of the study objectives. All respondents contributed in the study showed their interest and willingness. This study was conducted in district Lahore. The research objective of study was to examine relationship between teachers’ professional development and their teaching performance. The findings of this study indicated positive relationship between variables. Furthermore, study recommends that the duration of teachers’ professional development is not sufficient for their effective training, Govt. should take consideration of that and they should increase the duration of their training for the effective professional development of teachers. Keywords: Professional Development Trainings, Teaching Performance, Teachers, Secondary School
PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION ISSUE OF EDUCATIONAL POLICIES: DOMESTIC BREACHES
Authors:   Department of Gender and Women Studies,  Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad Pakistan, Ambreen Mamonah
Published: November 2022

Present research article deals with the policy making gaps, implementation of such policies for the promotion of primary education. The policies were identified and re-interpreted towards the existing policy issues after document analysis and in-depth interviews from the government officials and teaching staff. Various policies were present but number of out of school children were increasing as per annum demographic growth. Objective of the study was to identify the issues, ground based realities which create hinder in the promotion of education at the primary level. Various issues were included but those were not the only concerns which lessened educational development. The present research article was explorative and applied in nature which identify various issues in policy implementation level and ground facilities which were supporting factors for the promotion of educational development at primary school level. In-depth interviews were conducted from government officials, departments concerned with policymaking and its implementation e.g., NHCD, BECS and NEF. Both interview and document analysis techniques were used and included for the study. After the analysis of available educational policies, governmental departments’ view point, and interventions for the promotion of education, it was found that the absence of the collaboration among various departments, lack of political will, poor communication among all the stakeholders, weak administration at national and provincial level, issues of governance were some of the major barriers. It was highlighted that lack of coordination among the government departments is the main reason of this less promotion.The study concluded that lack of documentation and identification of gaps were the major reasons of lesser enrollments in primary schools. Poor communication among various government departments, governance structure and the lack of political will discuss in detail with personal input of spokesperson which clearly states that financial gaps and irregularities were some of the major causes of educational policies’ failure in Pakistan. Key Words: Educational Policy, Implementation gaps, political will, Corruption, Governance and poor coordination
BOON OR A BANE: A QUALITATIVE STUDY TO EXPLORE THE CRYPTOCURRENCY AFFECT THE TRADITIONAL FINANCIAL SYSTEM IN A DEVELOPING ECONOMY
Authors:   Department of Business Administration, University of Sahiwal, Pakistan, Gill Atif Ali , Ali Babar ,   Govt. Technical Training institute Sahiwal, Pakistan, Kazmi Khadija Rafia ,   Department of Business Administration, University of Sahiwal, Pakistan
Published: November 2022

Cryptocurrency is the top trend of the current era. It gained popularity quickly because of its advantages, such as cost-effectiveness, convenience, and secure medium of exchange. However, it suffers from the problem of money laundering, the mining process, and the outflow of the dollar. The current study aims to find cryptocurrency’s impact on the traditional financial system. For this purpose, the current research conducted interviews with ten different persons that know the use of cryptocurrency. After making different themes from transcribed data, NVivo software is used to analyze with the help of Word Tag Cloud, Word Tree Map, and Hierarchy Chart of the Word Tree. This study finds that cryptocurrency can be beneficial for the traditional financial system in case of its centralization under proper legislation to avoid money laundering and outflow of the dollar because it is more convenient, cost-effective, and secure than a traditional transaction system. Keywords: Cryptocurrency, medium of exchange, family food environment, family mealtimes, thematic analysis, Covid-19 pandemic, Pakistan
STRATEGIES OF USA-PAKISTAN RELATIONS IN THE POST 9/11 PERIOD: HURDLES AND PROSPECTS
Authors:   College of Law, Government College University, Faisalabad Pakistan, Imran Muhammad , Saeed Muhammad Arif ,   Department of Law, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Punjab, Pakistan
Published: November 2022

From that moment forward, the Pak-US relationship will be rocky, and it will challenge both countries' foreign strategies. As a result of its dire needs, Pakistan has come to rely heavily on the United States (US). After the country's liberation, Pakistan may play a significant role in the region. However, it was still difficult to imagine being in a relationship. The lack of trust between you and me is a significant factor in determining the nature of any future commitment. September 11 altered the trajectory of relationships and the depth of commitments. This event marked a turning moment in the mending of fences between the two parties. Since then, various factors have influenced who is responsible for what. The inclusion of the manual shows serious dedication. The willingness to commit is based on the extent to which one is helped. The US military's strategic outreach to Pakistan during the War on Terror solidified US interest in Pakistan and transformed it into a technologically advanced partner. Frustrations also contribute to a decline in teamwork. After 9/11, the globe saw both bright and less promising times due to three central defining moments: the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, the rise of the US as a global champion, the consolidation of territorial security, and the fear-based oppressor onslaught. This war against mental oppression envisioned a new alliance between the US and Pakistan; during this time, Pakistan faced challenges and emerged as a crucial ally for Americans in South Asia's war against fear. The relationship between the US and Pakistan was a cornerstone of American foreign policy. The approach to South Asia prior to the collapse of the Soviet Union. The US provided Pakistan political, economic, and military aid during the Cold War. The re-arming of Islamic militants against the Soviets posed new problems for the US. U.S. foreign policy experts' sense of urgency following the September 11 attacks led them to rethink their country's ties to Pakistan. Fears that Osama bin Laden and Islamic mercenaries are hiding near Pakistan's borders have been a top issue for Americans. Expanded US-India collaboration has been effectively constrained by the long-term goal of containing China and thwarting terrorism. Given those presumptions, this research looks into the ties between the US and Pakistan. Keywords: Bilateral connection, Pakistan, South Asia, United States of America, War on fear, 9/11.
POPULAR CHILDREN'S TV PROGRAMS IN PAKISTAN
Authors:   Department of English, Govt Sadiq College Women University Bahawalpur Pakistan, Khan Huma , Ghafar Majid Ul ,   Department of Communication and Media Studies, Hazara University Pakistan, Durrani Ayesha Sajid ,   Department of English, GSCWU, Bahawalpur Pakistan
Published: November 2022

TV is one of the most powerful mediums of communication. It broadcast information, entertainment and education via audio video. People around the globe use TV for different purposes. However, as an entertainment medium TV is considered the most powerful tool. Children of different age groups watch children TV programs to get themselves entertained. Present research study based on survey technique to investigate different popular children TV programs and their popularity among the children. Population for present research study was students studying in the different educational institutions of Pakistan. The purposive sampling technique was used. The sample size for this research study was 500 children studying in the different educational institutions having different age groups like 3-6, 6 -12 and 13-19. The data was collected from the selected sample through close ended questionnaire for convenient. The collected data was analyzed statistical software to make inferences. Media effect theory Uses and Gratification approach is most relevant media effects theory which was very much relevant with this research work. The exclusive analysis of the data reveals that overall majority of the respondents i.e., children prefer to watch children TV programs 2 to 6 hours a day. The empirical analysis of the data also reveals that Pakistani children prefer to watch Doramon, Jann, Oggy and Cockroaches, Tom & Jerry, Bugs Bunny, Ben 10, Barbie, Chotta Bheem, Moto Patlo and Mr Bean. The empirical analysis also reveals that children watch these programs for the purpose of entertainment and information. Keywords: Children, TV Channels, Children TV Programs, Popularity, Duration, Entertainment
MEDIATED PERFECT BODY IMAGES AND WOMEN: UNDERSTANDING ROLE OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN CREATING PRESSURES ON YOUNG WOMEN FACING HEIGHT, WEIGHT AND COMPLEXION STIGMA
Authors:   Department of Mass Communication, Lahore College for Women University Lahore Pakistan, Batool Sumera , Iqbal Naveed ,   Department of Mass Communication, Lahore College for Women University Lahore Pakistan, Arshad Bisma ,   Department of Mass Communication, Lahore College for Women University Lahore Pakistan
Published: November 2022

The mediated images of perfect body create concerns for its consumers. Such mediated images set some ideal and unrealistic standards of body features especially about weight, height and complexion that marginalize the individuals. The stigmatization of body features and beauty standards posits certain expectations in society. The social media is crucially becoming responsible for propagating the ideal and perfect body images due to its availability and wide consumption. So, this research study tends to understand the role of social media in creating pressures on young women and also how the lives of women facing weight, height and complexion stigma are being affected due to different kind of pressures. The exploratory research design with in-depth interviews as research method was opted. The research study revealed that women generally face lots of pressures due to mediated perfect body images and they also face body shaming when they are not meeting the expected beauty standards. The women find mediated body images very stereotypical and there are many stigma associated with body images. The practices of body shaming create certain pressures on women from families, peers and social media. Such pressures includes psychological and physical pressures that creates marital issues, low self-esteem, lack of confidence, negative feelings, insecurities, self- complexes, depression, loneliness, anxiety and eating disorders. Keywords: Mediated body images, Social media, Social pressures, Stigma, Women
Anticancer activity of Peronema canescens Jack leaves extracts against human cells: HT-29 and HeLa in vitro
Authors: Ibrahim Arsyik , Siswandono Siswandono , Prajogo EW Bambang
Published: November 2022

Studies of in vitro cytotoxic activity of Sungkai leaf (Peronema canescens Jack) using a human colon and cervical cancer cells have not been reported to date; the report was still limited to bioactivity in seawater shrimp larvae. The leaves of this plant contain many secondary metabolites with potential cytotoxic activity. Plants were a source of natural medicinal ingredients for cancer treatment are known as herbal medicines. Anticancer activity of a natural substance, in vitro cell line assays, can be used. This study aimed to determine the cytotoxicity (IC50) of P. canescens leaf of the chloroform, ethyl acetate, and ethanol extract against HT-29 colon cancer and HeLa cervical cancer cells. The P. canescens leaf was extracted by the maceration method using methanol solvent. The dried sample was separated by the liquid-liquid method and successive polarity gradient eluents: chloroform, ethyl acetate, and ethanol. Cell line to used HT-29 and HeLa cells, Cytotoxicity test with MTT (3-(4,5-dimethyl azole-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) method. The concentration used was from 1.5µg/mL to 200.0 µg/mL. The cytotoxic activity values (IC50) of each extract on HT-29 and HeLa cells were chloroform (10.353 µg/mL and 38.913µg/mL), ethyl acetate (48.635µg/mL and 28.186µg/mL), and ethanol (42.017µg/mL), and 253.190µg/mL), respectively. The results showed that the cytotoxic activity of chloroform extracts had a strong cytotoxic effect and a moderate effect on HeLa cervical cancer cells. Anticancer research opportunities are wide open for further studies.
Role of Surfactant and Co-surfactant in Microemulsion: A Review
Authors: N. Ande Sagar , B. Sonone Krutika , L. Bakal Ravindrakumar , V. Ajmire Prashant , S. Sawarkar Harigopal
Published: November 2022

Microemulsions are one in all the most effective candidates as novel drug delivery system due to their long time period stability, improved drug solubilization with simple preparation and administration. Surfactants and cosurfactants play crucial role to get stable, mild and clinically acceptable microemulsions in their optimized concentration, The main aim of the study to produce an efficient screening approach for the surfactant and cosurfactant selection for the excipients of microemulsion formulation development and to check the consequences of surfactant hydrophilic–lipophilic balance (HLB) as well solubilization stability process in microemulsion. The composition and extent of surfactants and cosurfactants were key variables for physicochemical properties of drug-loaded Microemulsions. The important aspects must be considered for a successful microemulsion process is that the stability of the liquid membrane. This study is an attempt to grasp the mechanism of the effect of the surfactant and chain length of co-surfactants within the microemulsion base formulation stability.
A Review on Freeze-drying: A Stability Enhancement Technique
Authors: I Silambarasan , AN Rajalakshmi
Published: November 2022

Freeze-drying is effective technique used in pharmaceutical industry to increase the efficacy, shelf-life of formulations and makes easier to transport and storage. Freeze-drying applies to the product that is thermolabile and unstable in solution form, because of utilization of low temperature and pressure. Nowadays freeze-drying gained so much attention in the development of parenteral formulation especially vaccines. The selection of excipients plays a key role in development of freeze-dried product and used to improve the shelf life and makes the product cost effective. The structure of cake not only focuses on appearance of product and also provide information about issues on drying stage that impact quality of product. Tray style freeze dryer helps in development of long-term storage vaccines and labile drugs. It performs freeze drying in containers or in vials on large quantities. This makes tray style freeze dryer become most common for developing lyophilized product. The need for improve the shelf-life of protein-based drug and antibiotics formulations makes tremendous growth of freeze-dried product market. This review focuses on the lyophilization process, design of freeze dryer, role of excipients in lyophilization process, decision of selecting the excipients, importance of cake structure helps to develop stable lyophilized drug product for long-term usage and applications of lyophilization technology.