bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Earthquake Swarms and Seismic Gaps Along the Dead Sea Fault System
Authors: Engelberg Shaked , Wetzler Nadav , Agnon Amotz
Published: February 2025

The appearance of seismic sequences along fault zones provides paramount information regarding faulting characteristics and tectonic kinematics, especially for microseismic activity along plates with relatively slow motion. Moreover, the characterization of seismic sequences can shed light on the mechanisms triggering the seismic activity. This study examines the seismicity along the Dead Sea fault system, a ∼400 km strike-slip plate boundary between the Arabian and Sinai subplates. Earthquake clusters and background seismicity are defined by applying a nearest-neighborhood algorithm to a relocated catalog from 1983 to 2023. We recognize 56 clusters above the magnitude of completeness, which are classified into four types: aftershock sequences, doublets or triplets, and swarms. Aftershock clusters have a magnitude difference greater than 0.5 between the largest and second-largest events in the cluster. Doublets and triplets feature similar magnitudes among their two or three largest events, respectively. Swarms are clusters for which the magnitude difference is less than 0.5 between the four largest events. Our statistical analysis indicates certain spatial tendencies of the cluster-type distribution along the Dead Sea fault. Aftershock type clusters are mostly located along the Dead Sea basin (for which only 22% of clusters are classified as swarms), and swarms are recognized north and south of it: the Arava fault (south), the Jordan Valley fault, and the Sea of Galilee (north). A spatial correlation emerges between earthquake swarms and regions of relative seismicity quiescence (gaps), for which swarms develop at the edges of the seismic gaps. The seismogenic depth associated with aftershock populations shows considerable variability: In the northern segment, clustered events occur mostly at the shallow 16 km depth, whereas in the southern segments, most clusters are located deeper, reaching 24 km depth. These observations are consistent with the shallower seismogenic depth measured in these segments.
Efficient Object Tracking in Unlabeled Videos for Animal Behavior Studies Using Machine Learning
Authors: Ortega-Jimenez Elena , Noshahri Ehsan , Molares-Ulloa Andres , Rodriguez Alvaro
Published: February 2025

This work seeks to explore the development of a semi-supervised framework for animal tracking in controlled environments, leveraging principles from computer vision, machine learning, and deep learning. Initially conceptualized for single-object tracking, the approach will be generalized to accommodate multiple entities. Addressing the limitations posed by sparse labeled data, the method will involve user input to initialize object selection, enabling automated tracking across video sequences. Various techniques, including template matching, optical flow, and data augmentation, will be incorporated. The model's potential will be evaluated in scenarios involving complex movement patterns, with the aim of extracting relevant behavioral insights.
Performance Analysis of Parameterized Quantum Kernel Methods on a Selection of Machine Learning Datasets
Authors: Alvarez-Estevez Diego
Published: February 2025

This work explores Quantum Kernel Estimation (QKE) and Quantum Kernel Training (QKT) in the context of classification tasks. Two quantum feature maps are analyzed for this purpose, in comparison to classical Support Vector Machine counterparts. Classification performance is analyzed on a selection of both ad-hoc and classical datasets, with QKT applied to optimize kernel parameters in QKE. Experimental data shows that quantum methods outperform classical ones in ad-hoc data. However, when confronting classical datasets, they frequently encounter difficulties in generalization, despite achieving high accuracy on the training set. We conclude that the choice of the feature mapping and the optimization of kernel parameters are critical for maximizing the effectiveness of the quantum methods.
The Distribution of the Tourist Expenditure in Spain Among the Visited Autonomous Communities: a First Approach
Authors: Frade Amil Diego , Oviedo de la Fuente Manuel , Naya Salvador , Tarrío-Saavedra Javier , Francisco-Fernández Mario
Published: February 2025

The Tourist Expenditure Survey (Encuesta de Gasto Turístico, EGATUR) tries to determinate the expenditure made by foreign travelers who visit Spain. The data from each questionnaire are assigned to a single main destination autonomous community, but not necessarily the only one visited. Therefore, the real expenditure made in each autonomous community can not be determined. This problem is being the object of study in the line 9 of the project ``Ciencia e ingeniería de datos para la mejora de la función estadística oficial''. Our proposal consists of estimating a matrix whose elements will represent the probability of real expenditure in each autonomous community for a given main destination. Using this matrix, it will posible to estimate the real expenditure in each autonomous community. The present paper revises a first approach to estimate this matrix built from the proportion of visits or overnight stays in the different autonomous communities.
Automated Web Information Collection System for Analyzing ICT Innovations in Companies
Authors: Hermo Francisco , Gómez Ángel , Dafonte Carlos
Published: February 2025

For companies, having ICT innovation capabilities on their websites is an essential factor for staying competitive in the current market. Additionally, collecting this type of public information can be very useful for analytical and statistical purposes. Our project focuses on developing a system that allows us to automatically collect information about the technological innovations companies add to their websites, search for it, extract it, and turn it into exploitable data. To achieve this, we are going to use the well-known technique of Web Scraping, which allows us to track and extract data from the various websites we are interested in. The extracted information will be processed and exported into JSON format files, ensuring its future exploitation.
Asthma and obesity: capabilities of bariatric surgery
Authors: Karoli N. A.
Published: February 2025

The phenotype of asthma and obesity is an urgent problem of modern medicine. A number of studies have shown that obesity increases the risk of developing asthma by 1.4 – 2.6 times. It has been found that asthma in obese people is often associated with a larger number of symptoms, more pronounced impairment of pulmonary function, and a high need for inhaled drugs. Weight loss provides health benefits against many comorbidities such as obesity, but diet, exercise, and even pharmacologically induced weight loss are associated with poor long­term effectiveness. Bariatric surgery is a promising intervention for weight loss and long­term control of obesity­related comorbidities, including asthma. The purpose of this work is to summarize data on the effect of bariatric surgery on the course of asthma. Results. Available data support the effectiveness of bariatric methods in the treatment of asthma with morbid obesity: weight loss has a beneficial effect on asthma, its control and reduces the use of emergency medications, asthma exacerbations, hospitalizations, and also leads to improved quality of life and functional lung tests. The mechanisms that explain the improvement and sometimes remission of asthma after bariatric surgery are likely multifactorial. At the same time, it should be noted that the reported results of bariatric surgery in patients with asthma mostly come from observational studies, which have many limitations, including small numbers of patients, lack of clear endpoints, lack of standardization of diagnosis, classification and evaluation of asthma treatment results. Most studies do not specify the severity of asthma, and in those that do, most patients had mild or moderate asthma. It remains unclear whether the effect differs depending on the phenotype of the obese asthmatic patient. Also, at present, there is practically no data on differences in the effectiveness and safety of the method of surgical intervention used in patients with asthma. Conclusion. Bariatric techniques should be considered a treatment option in morbidly obese patients with severe asthma after the previous failure of medical, dietary, physical, and psychotherapeutic treatments.
STEM Aspiration: Stories of Key High School Alumnae with Math Underachievement Experience
Authors: Wu Ye
Published: February 2025

In mainland China, female underrepresentation in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) exists in schools and workplaces. Previous research has focused on mainstream reasons for females’ underrepresentation compared to males. Many studies have used quantitative methods to examine one or two correlated factors with women’s STEM aspirations. However, only a few studies used qualitative research to explore all-sided reasons and their multifactor effects. This study focused on the life stories of mainland key high school alumnae who successfully pursued STEM majors or careers after experiencing academic failure in mathematics. It aims to explore the nature and complexity of STEM aspiration development for this group of females. The finding shows that the STEM learning experiences of three female alumnae before adversity, their self-efficacy and outcome expectations after adversity, and other contextual factors have influenced women’s interests, goals, choices, and learning behaviors in pursuing STEM. However, there are differences in how these factors are influenced across the three stories. Based on the participants’ stories and Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT), a progressive flowchart was constructed to represent the interplay among the major factors in STEM aspiration. The research provides insights into how mainland China’s institutions, teachers, and parents can guide female students to pursue STEM while inevitably having questions like small sample size and limited access to participants.
The Consequences of Non-Tariff Trade Barriers: Theory and Evidence from Import Licenses in Argentina
Authors: Juarez Leticia , Bernini Federico , García-Lembergman Ezequiel
Published: February 2025

As WTO regulations limited tariffs, non-tariff barriers, such as import licenses (NAILs), became essential trade policy tools. This paper examines how NAILs impact downstream firms in Argentina. Using a novel dataset and the staggered introduction of NAILs between 2005-2011 for identification, we analyze their causal effects on firms' imports and the subsequent effect on exports and employment. Results indicate that NAILs reduce firms' imports, inducing more exposed
firms to reduce exports and employment. A trade model with oligopolistic competition suggests that firms' market power can moderate the impact of NAILs in highly concentrated markets.
Intervención estadounidense en Colombia (1999-2016): de las relaciones internacionales a la política de defensa y seguridad
Authors: Arias Barona Christian
Published: February 2025

El presente artículo aborda el fenómeno de la intervención estadounidense en Colombia durante el siglo XXI y sus consecuencias en la política de defensa y seguridad, para lo cual recurre a las teorías reflectivistas con base en el campo de las relaciones internacionales y son puestas en diálogo con algunos aportes de la teoría crítica latinoamericana. En ese sentido, plantea una mirada en la que la dimensión vertical del poder y la jerarquía en el sistema internacional son los ordenado- res de la interacción de los Estados. Así mismo, se recupera la discusión centro-periferia y se articula el ejercicio de análisis a partir del empleo del concepto de imperialismo informal militarizado y sus derivas en el caso colombiano.
Políticas de defensa en América del Sur en el siglo XXI
Authors: Magnani Ezequiel
Published: February 2025

El presente artículo examina la forma en que los países de América del Sur instrumentalizan su política de defensa para lidiar con los Estados Unidos de América (EUA). Específicamente, se abordan los casos de Argentina, Brasil, Colombia y Venezuela durante el siglo XXI. En su dimensión teórica, el trabajo se ubica dentro de las teorías latinoamericanas de relaciones internacionales e indaga sobre las diferencias conceptuales existentes entre el comportamiento internacional de los países de la región y su política de defensa nacional. A partir de la clarificación teórica, se introducen los tipos ideales de comportamiento de los Estados sudamericanos ante los EUA (alineamiento contra/no alineamiento/alineamiento con) y la forma en la que estos se asocian a los tipos ideales de política de defensa (defensa aversiva/defensa defensiva/defensa concesiva). El trabajo adopta un diseño metodológico cualitativo, ligado a la inferencia causal sobre la base del análisis cualitativo de múltiples casos en la medida que se examina la forma en la que los diferentes comportamientos internacionales ante los EUA incidieron en la orientación de la política de defensa de los países seleccionados. En tal sentido, en el apartado empírico se desarrolla la manera en la que Argentina, Brasil, Colombia y Venezuela utilizaron su política de defensa para lidiar con la asimetría de poder existente con la potencia dominante.
Los desafíos políticos de la conquista del universo
Authors: Sandoval Álvarez Melida Consuelo
Published: February 2025

Este artículo tiene como objetivo establecer los desafíos políticos que plantea la conquista del universo. Para esto, se realizó un análisis a través de la metodología cualitativa de los tratados internacionales que regulan las acciones que se llevan a cabo en el espacio exterior por parte de los países y del marco legal que regula a las empresas privadas en la exploración y explotación de los recursos del cosmos. Se plantean tres variables como base de este análisis: la propiedad del universo, la cooperación internacional y el uso pacífico del espacio ultraterrestre. Como resultado de este estudio, pudo identificarse que existen varios retos políticos, derivados de los vacíos en la regulación de la explotación y exploración del espacio ultraterrestre, tales como la apropiación de los recursos del cosmos, la militarización y el emplazamiento de armas en el espacio, lo que requerirá en las próximas décadas un debate serio por parte de las potencias mundiales que pueden poner en riesgo el uso pacífico del espacio ultraterrestre.
La información pública sobre delito en Argentina. El caso de la provincia de Buenos Aires - Partido de General Pueyrredón
Authors: Belén Muñiz María , Iscaro Martín
Published: February 2025

El objetivo general del artículo es analizar las condiciones de producción de las estadísticas criminales en Argentina en la actualidad. Más específicamente, dar cuenta de la elaboración, publicación y accesibilidad de información sobre delitos en el Partido de General Pueyrredón durante el periodo 2007-2022. A partir de un recorrido por la totalidad de fuentes primarias como secundarias que presentan datos sobre delitos del Partido de General Pueyrredón, la intención es poder mostrar con qué producción de información pública contamos sobre procesos vinculados con la “cuestión criminal y la cuestión penal”, analizando no solo las fuentes, sino también la diversidad de construcción de los tipos de datos publicados, así como resaltar algunos elementos vinculados con la forma de construir y analizar dicha información.
The Support of Small Business Development in Russia in a Modern Period
Authors:   Cherepovets State University, Fedulova E.A.
Published: February 2025

In the article the small business is considered like one of the most
important elements influencing on the steadiness of economics and
political situation in the country. The data about the amount of small
Russian enterprises and the structure of small business are given here.
The basic barriers on the way of development of the small business
are enumerated in the article. At present the program of support of
the small business is worked out and improved on the government’s
part.
The Peculiarities of the Organization of Public Relation Activity in the Autonomous Bodies in Modern Russia (in Kazan)
Authors:   Saratov State University, Gareeva E.M.
Published: February 2025

In the following article you will see the analysis of the internal and
external factors, determining the PR peculiarities in the local authorities level.
Internet Technologies as a Factor of the Representative Democracy Mechanisms Transformation
Authors:   Saratov State University, Alekseev Y.M.
Published: February 2025

In the article the role of the Internet in the social-political development
of the modern society is shown. The possibilities and perspectives of
the representative democracy mechanisms changes and surrounding
problems are analyzed.
Integrating AI and RPA in Pega for Intelligent Process Automation: A Comparative Study
Authors: Viswanadhapalli Vamsi
Published: February 2025

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) within Pega’s Intelligent Process Automation (IPA) framework is fundamentally transforming enterprise workflow management. Traditional RPA, while effective in automating repetitive, rule-based tasks, lacks the adaptability and cognitive capabilities required for handling dynamic business processes. AI-enhanced RPA, on the other hand, leverages machine learning (ML), natural language processing (NLP), predictive analytics, and decision-making algorithms to enable self-learning automation systems that optimize workflows, reduce errors, and improve operational efficiency.
This study conducts a comparative analysis between traditional RPA and AI-powered RPA within the Pega ecosystem, focusing on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as process execution time, accuracy, cost-effectiveness, scalability, and adaptability. By evaluating empirical data from real-world implementations, this research identifies the tangible benefits of AI-enhanced RPA in automating complex business operations across industries such as finance, healthcare, and e-commerce. The comparative assessment is structured around efficiency gains, error reduction, financial viability, and scalability, providing quantifiable insights into the transformative potential of AI-driven process automation.
Using real-world case studies and industry benchmarks, this study demonstrates how AI-enabled automation in Pega improves workflow orchestration, predictive decision-making, and end-to-end automation of critical business functions. AI-powered bots can analyze data, predict process bottlenecks, automate exception handling, and enhance customer interactions, thereby surpassing the limitations of traditional RPA.
The findings from this research emphasize the strategic advantages of AI-enhanced RPA in digital transformation efforts. Organizations that integrate AI-powered IPA within their automation strategies gain a competitive edge by achieving greater operational efficiency, reducing costs, and enabling scalable, intelligent automation solutions that adapt to changing business needs. This paper provides actionable recommendations for enterprises looking to leverage AI in Pega-driven automation frameworks, ensuring a seamless transition from rule-based automation to intelligent, self-optimizing workflows.
Ultimately, the study concludes that AI-driven RPA in Pega is not just an incremental improvement over traditional RPA but represents a paradigm shift toward autonomous and cognitive automation, setting a new standard for enterprise-level process management.
AI and the Transformation of Global Politics
Authors: Trang Nguyen Minh , Thao Khuong Phuong
Published: February 2025

The Fourth Industrial Revolution has profound impacts on the development and transformation of different aspects in society, one of which is the emergence of AI (artificial intelligence).  In the context the global political situation is marked by complex challenges and shifting dynamics, reflecting the interconnected nature of contemporary issues such as geopolitical tensions, economic fragmentation and emerging threat, AI has significantly shaped global politics by revolutionizing decision-making, security, and economic competition. It empowers nations with advanced tools for diplomacy, cybersecurity, and predictive analytics, enhancing their strategic influence on the world stage. The emergence of AI technology has ushered in a new age in global security, defenses, political economics to political systems. The paper examines how AI has been incorporated into these fields in different contexts, such as autonomous weapon systems, surveillance, decision - making processes and economic changes and analyze complex interactions between AI and politics and society issues in reshaping global politics and international orders.
AÇÕES COLETIVAS E PRÁTICAS SUSTENTÁVEIS NA AGRICULTURA FAMILIAR: EXPERIÊNCIAS NO NORDESTE PARAENSE
Authors: Nogueira Ludmila Da Rocha
Published: February 2025

Este relato de experiência explora a importância das ações coletivas no Nordeste Paraense para o uso de práticas sustentáveis entre agricultores familiares. O estudo baseia-se em observação de campo e relatos de agricultores visitados durante uma viagem de campo da disciplina de Agroecologia e Sistemas Agroflorestais da UFPA, nos municípios de Irituia, São Domingos do Capim e Tomé-Açu. Destacou-se a importância da organização social para fortalecer a agricultura familiar, facilitar a adoção de práticas sustentáveis como a agricultura orgânica e os sistemas agroflorestais e impulsionar a economia local. Somado a isso, a união dos agricultores permitiu parcerias com instituições de pesquisa, assistência técnica e acesso a políticas públicas, evidenciando que esse processo é crucial para o desenvolvimento sustentável do meio rural.
CARACTERIZAÇÃO DO MANEJO SANITÁRIO DE AVES CAIPIRAS EM SISTEMAS DE PRODUÇÃO DA AGRICULTURA FAMILIAR NO SUDESTE DO PARÁ
Authors: Da Silva Lima Danillo Henrique , Aquino Poliana Da Silva , De Oliveira Romulo Gomes , Magevski Luiz Rodrigo Teixeira , Paz Kaline Da Silva , Santana Cláudio Costa , De Oliveira Mariana Gomes
Published: February 2025

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo caracterizar o manejo sanitário de aves caipiras em propriedades da agricultura familiar localizadas em Marabá e São João do Araguaia, sudeste do Pará. Foram visitadas 29 propriedades para aplicação de questionário semiestruturado. O sistema de produção predominante foi o semiextensivo. Quanto a vacinação, 55,17% das propriedades relataram executar esta prática, principalmente contra Newcastle, Bouba Aviária, Cólera e Tifo e 79,31% relataram praticar vermifugação. Em 17,24% das propriedades foram relatadas altas mortalidades com ocorrência no período chuvoso. As enfermidades relatadas com maior ocorrência foram Bouba aviária, Tifo/Salmonelose e Verminose. Estruturas e materiais como cortina, enfermaria, cama de aviário, campânula e círculo de proteção não foram observadas em mais da metade das propriedades e nenhuma apresentou pedilúvio. Estas informações são importantes para contribuir na elaboração de programa de manejo sanitário de aves caipiras para a região do sudeste paraense.
A rare case of bilateral Preiser’s disease originating from the distal pole of the scaphoid
Authors: Isgandarli Shikhali , Çabukoğlu Cengiz , Şensoy Berk Özer
Published: February 2025

The scaphoid bone – os naviculare manus – is an important bone in that it is located within the proximal row of carpal bones and articulates with both the radius and other carpal bones. Preiser’s disease is a rare entity and is commonly associated with avascular necrosis of the scaphoid without fracture or trauma. This case study describes a 55-year-old female patient who visited our outpatient clinic complaining of five months' worth of pain and swelling on both of her wrists. The patient had no history of trauma or prolonged steroid use. The patient had pain around the thenar region and anatomical snuff box on both wrists. On a 2-directional wrist radiograph, the distal part of the scaphoid bone showed signs of subchondral sclerosis. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) was performed to verify the diagnosis. MRI of the patient's wrist revealed bone edema at the distal pole of the scaphoid which was associated with Preiser’s disease. In this case study, we present a patient who had bilateral Preiser's illness that began at the distal pole.
Enchondromas
Authors: Bektaş Mert , Gem Kadir , Yalçın Mehmet , Tosyalı Hakan Koray
Published: February 2025

Objectives: Enchondromas are benign cartilage tissue tumors composed of mature hyaline cartilage. Most enchondromas are discovered incidentally during radiological examinations. Differentiating between low-grade chondrosarcoma and enchondroma can be difficult both clinically, radiologically, and histologically. Malignant tumors can mimic benign tumors. Therefore, it is crucial to accurately diagnose enchondromas, as the treatments for both tumors are very different. We aimed to contribute to a better understanding of the clinical features and treatment challenges of patients diagnosed with enchondroma.
Methods: Thirty patients who presented to the Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology at Manisa Celal Bayar University Faculty of Medicine between 2010 and 2023 and were diagnosed with enchondroma in hand after surgical treatment were retrospectively evaluated in our study. The patients were classified according to the Tordai and Takigawa classifications.
Results: Nineteen women and 11 men were examined. The lesions were observed in the left hand in 15 patients and in the right hand in 15 patients. The proximal phalanx was the most affected area. Fractures developed in 2 patients during postoperatively, requiring revision surgeries. No wound complications were observed during follow-up, and except for 2 patients who experienced refractures, both clinical and radiological complete healing was observed at the 8-week follow-up.
Conclusions: This study aims to understand better the clinical features and treatment challenges of patients diagnosed with enchondroma. We believe that immobilization for at least 4 weeks or implant application would be appropriate to increase stability in patients with intramedullary involvement of more than 50% in the dominant hand. Enchondromas still present many unknowns, more research is necessary to increase knowledge about these tumors. This study provides important data regarding enchondromas and serves as a foundational step for further research and investigation in this area.
SDGs in the Wellness- and Luxury Hospitality Industry after the COVID-19 Pandemics
Authors: Maas Maximilian
Published: February 2025

The demand- and supply-implied effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the wellness and luxury hotel industry positively affect the perception of sustainability among customers and employees. Increasing pressure from customers and society on the hoteliers themselves, in addition to the Ukraine crisis with the implied energy crisis, especially in Central Europe, is increasing the importance of sustainable corporate strategies.

Methodology/Design/Approach: With the help of a literature review, this paper identifies theses discussed by 17 wellness and luxury hotel industry experts with the help of partially standardised expert interviews and content analysis, according to Mayring (2015).

Findings: The research confirms the importance, acceptance, and successful implementation of the SDGs as a framework and goal for the sustainability strategy. It also analyses the most important and successfully implemented ecological, economic, and social measures in the context of crises and the SDGs.

Originality of the research: The research confirms the importance, acceptance, and successful implementation of the SDGs as a framework and goal for the sustainability strategy. It also analyses the most important and successfully implemented ecological, economic, and social measures in the context of crises and the SDGs
Retoryczność w filmowych obrazach świata Andrzeja Fidyka
Authors: Fiołek-Lubczyńska Bogumiła
Published: February 2025

Prezentowana publikacja zawiera opis i analizę dorobku jednego z najwybitniejszych polskich dokumentalistów, Andrzeja Fidyka. Światowy rozgłos i uznanie przyniosła mu Defilada, a sławę ugruntowały takie filmy, jak: Karnawał – największe party świata, Kiniarze z Kalkuty, Rosyjski striptiz, Sen Staszka w Teheranie, Historie z Yodok. Autorka podjęła próbę interpretacji jego twórczości za pomocą narzędzi badawczych związanych z retoryką, co pozwoliło jej unaocznić zasady realizacji ich dyskursywności. Film dokumentalny analizuje ona poprzez jego relacje z rzeczywistością, a także jako wykładnik twórczej idei dokumentalisty, która pozwala mu na skuteczne komunikowanie z widzem. Obok analizy topiki filmowej Fidyka i kluczowej kategorii widowiskowości, czytelnik znajdzie tu również subtelne interpretacje wybranych filmów reżysera oraz próbę charakterystyki jego osobowości twórczej. Widowiskowość cechuje całą twórczość Fidyka i nie tylko zapewnia wysoką rangę artystyczną jego dziełom, ale także przykuwa uwagę współczesnego widza. Osobny rozdział autorka poświęca zagadnieniom dotyczącym „szkoły Fidyka” i filmom jego najbardziej znanych uczniów.
Vade Nobiscum, tom XXIV/2024
Authors: Jastrząbek Jakub , Mikuła Maksymilian , Bartosiewicz Rafał , Szewczyk Rafał , Wierzejski Eryk , Kania Jakub , Bednarska Julia
Published: February 2025

Vade Nobiscum to cyklicznie wydawana monografia wieloautorska pod auspicjami Studenckiego Koła Naukowego Historyków UŁ. Niniejszy tom stanowi pokłosie ogólnopolskiej, studencko-doktoranckiej konferencji naukowej „Tygiel kultur, narodów i religii – Bliski Wschód na przestrzeni dziejów”, która odbyła się w Łodzi w dniach 13–15 marca 2024 roku i miała charakter interdyscyplinarny. Tom XXIV zawiera dziesięć artykułów autorstwa uczestników tej konferencji. Dotyczą one szeroko rozumianej historii politycznej oraz społecznej, etnologii, nauk o kulturze i religii oraz politologii od starożytności po XXI wiek, m.in. zagadnień z zakresu dyplomacji, relacji społecznych na Bliskim Wschodzie, a także roli muzyki w polityce czy figur retorycznych w kwestiach wizerunkowych między chrześcijanami a muzułmanami.
Pogranicze bizantyńsko-arabskie w świetle Eposu o Digenisie Akritasie
Authors: Mikuła Maksymilian
Published: February 2025

Epos o Digenisie Akritasie jest jedynym zachowanym do dzisiejszych czasów eposem bizantyńskim. Utwór ten powstał najprawdopodobniej w XII w., za panowania w Bizancjum dynastii Komnenów. Podzielony jest on na dwie części. Pierwsza z nich opowiada historię Musura, arabskiego emira, który przyjął chrzest. Natomiast druga prezentuje dzieje jego syna, legendarnego wojownika Bazylego Digenisa Akritasa. W artykule autor zastanawia się, w jaki sposób w utworze zostało przedstawione pogranicze bizantyńsko-arabskie przed 1071 r., czyli w okresie, kiedy dzieje się akcja eposu. Analizuje m.in. takie kwestie, jak znaczenie religii dla ludności pogranicza, rolę arystokracji militarnej czy przyczyny i znaczenie walki dla społeczeństwa omawianego terenu. Historyk porównuje informacje zawarte w eposie z innymi źródłami, czyli De ceremoniis Konstantyna Porfirogenety oraz Concilia et Narrationes Kekaumenosa. Na koniec prezentuje on wnioski na temat tego, w jaki sposób w eposie zostało ukazane pogranicze, a także czy dzieło to przekazuje wiarygodne informacje na temat życia na wzmiankowanym terytorium.
Relacje Stanów Zjednoczonych z poszczególnymi wybranymi państwami Bliskiego Wschodu za czasów prezydentury Donalda Trumpa (2017–2021)
Authors: Kania Jakub
Published: February 2025

Bliski Wschód jest szczególnym miejscem na mapie świata. W relacjach międzynarodowych państwa tego regionu są przedmiotem albo podmiotem polityki zagranicznej największych mocarstw, w tym naturalnie Stanów Zjednoczonych. Szczególnie ciekawym okresem w historii stosunków międzynarodowych było urzędowanie prezydenta USA Donalda Trumpa w latach 2017–2021. Zmienił on diametralnie politykę zagraniczną swojego kraju, prowadząc do częściowego izolacjonizmu i ograniczeniu pomocy poszczególnym partnerom, zwłaszcza tym z Europy. W moim artykule skupię się na relacjach administracji lokatora Białego Domu z poszczególnymi krajami Bliskiego Wschodu. Odpowiem na pytanie, czy w oczach Waszyngtonu były one podmiotem czy przedmiotem. Relacje z krajami są przedstawione na podstawie analizy stosunków między USA a poszczególnymi państwami, które wymieniam poniżej. Prezentacja, z racji mnogości państw, będzie obejmowała poszczególne kraje arabskie, takie jak Irak, Iran, Arabia Saudyjska, Afganistan, Syria. Omówione zostaną także bliskie relacje USA i Izraela, które oddziaływały na wyżej wymienione ośrodki władzy. Pewne decyzje i wydarzenia miały znaczenie i budziły zainteresowanie w innych krajach, w innych częściach świata. Świadczy to o powadze i znaczeniu relacji USA z innymi krajami Bliskiego Wschodu. Stały się one szczególnie ciekawe z racji na zaprzestanie polityki swoich poprzedników i wprowadzenie przez administrację Trumpa doktryny America First, którą odczuły także państwa Bliskiego Wschodu. Przedmiotem badania stało się także to, czy kontakty międzypaństwowe były regułą związaną kluczem geograficznym bądź też religijnym czy też polityka była zupełnie inna dla każdego poszczególnego gracza. Moje wystąpienie oparte jest na tekstach dotyczących: Stanów Zjednoczonych, prezydenta Donalda Trumpa i polityki, zwłaszcza zagranicznej, przez niego prowadzonej. Istotne także będą artykuły i monografie opisujące sytuacje na Bliskim Wschodzie w latach 2017–2021.
Wspólne czy oddzielne? Międzyreligijne miejsca pielgrzymkowe w Libanie jako przykład nieoczywistych relacji społecznych na Bliskim Wschodzie
Authors: Bednarska Julia
Published: February 2025

Wyznawcy wielu religii o bliskowschodnim rodowodzie od wieków pielgrzymują do miejsc uznawanych za święte przez wspólnotę, do której należą. Jednakże w świecie arabskim, a szczególnie na Bliskim Wschodzie, ukształtował się wyjątkowy rodzaj sanktuariów odwiedzanych przez wiernych należących do kilku różnych grup religijnych i wyznaniowych. Istnienie miejsc międzyreligijnego kultu obrazuje interesujący wymiar złożonych relacji społecznych na Bliskim Wschodzie, gdzie granice między sposobami przeżywania religijności przez osoby należące do różnych wspólnot wydają się nieraz tracić na wyrazistości. Artykuł przybliża proces powstawania oraz funkcjonowania międzyreligijnych miejsc pielgrzymkowych na przykładzie Libanu, a także ich typologię oraz wspólne i odrębne rytuały wykonywane przez wiernych różnych konfesji. Wskazuje również na wpływ, jaki wywarły przemiany polityczne i społeczne w ostatnich dekadach na omawiane miejsca kultu. W artykule zarysowana jest także rola, jaką te sanktuaria mogą pełnić jako przestrzenie spotkania z Innym i propagowania idei koegzystencji różnych libańskich konfesji. Liban stanowi szczególną przestrzeń kontaktów międzyreligijnych przyczyniających się do pojawiania się na przestrzeni dziejów licznych sanktuariów tego typu. W społeczeństwie tego kraju ukształtowały się współdzielone przekonania, dotyczące uświęconego charakteru tych samych miejsc oraz wiara w skuteczne wstawiennictwo świętych postaci wywodzących się z różnych, choć powiązanych ze sobą, tradycji religii monoteistycznych. Mimo że wierni nie wyzbywają się swojej odrębnej tożsamości religijnej, istnieje liczny zbiór identycznych rytuałów, wykonywanych w trakcie pielgrzymek przez wyznawców różnych religii. Oprócz nich podejmowane są także praktyki charakterystyczne tylko dla jednej grupy. Z jednej strony międzyreligijne miejsca kultu stanowią potencjalne przestrzenie rozwijania dialogu narodowego w libańskim społeczeństwie, z drugiej strony, z różnych względów, wywołują krytykę niektórych grup i przywódców religijnych, a dynamiczne procesy społeczne i politycznie silnie wpływają na funkcjonowanie międzyreligijnych sanktuariów, zarówno negatywnie jak i pozytywnie. Losy owych miejsc pielgrzymkowych obrazują wielokierunkowość tych procesów zachodzących w Libanie w przeszłości oraz obecnie.
How to develop the capital market?: make countries fitness
Authors: Villavicencio Vásquez Julio
Published: February 2025

Este trabajo examina la relación entre la competitividad del sistema productivo de un
país y el desarrollo de sus mercados de capitales. La competitividad se mide utilizando
el Economic Fitness Index, EFI, que evalúa la capacidad de un país para producir bienes
diversificados y complejos. Analizando datos de panel de 98 países (1997–2022), el
estudio encuentra una relación positiva y significativa entre la complejidad productiva y
el desarrollo de los mercados de capitales, incluso al controlar por estabilidad
macroeconómica, calidad institucional y desarrollo bancario. Los hallazgos sugieren que
la complejidad productiva incrementa la demanda y oferta de instrumentos financieros,
fomentando mercados de capitales más profundos. Pruebas de robustez realizadas con
el Índice de Complejidad Económica (Economic Complexity Index, ECI) confirman estos
resultados, destacando el papel de la sofisticación económica en el desarrollo de los
mercados financieros.
Study protocol: Acute effects of lower limb strength exercises on gait asymmetry in people with Parkinson’s disease - AsymmGait-Parkinson study
Authors: Cursiol Jônatas A. , Barbieri Ricardo A. , Barbieri Fabio A.
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND: Gait asymmetry in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD) refers to an imbalance in the movement between the left and right sides of the body during walking, which is often associated with disease progression. This asymmetry is associated with more severe gait deficits, such as freezing of gait, falls, and stumbling. Because PD progression is associated with motor asymmetry, it is crucial to address this issue when developing targeted rehabilitation strategies. Physical exercise focused on lower limb strengthening shows promise in reducing gait asymmetry.
AIM: The proposed randomized clinical trial will compare the immediate effects of physical exercise focused on the most affected lower limb, the least affected lower limb, and both lower limbs on gait asymmetry in people with PD.
METHOD: The study will involve 36 participants with idiopathic PD (Trial registration: Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry RBR-5s234bn). Participants will attend seven laboratory visits, which will include clinical evaluations, strength exercise sessions, and gait assessments conducted at three specific time points: baseline (before the intervention), immediately after the intervention, and 24 hours post-intervention. Each intervention will involve strength exercises specifically targeting the lower limbs, focusing on improving muscle function and addressing gait asymmetry in people with PD. Three acute interventions will be tailored to i) the most affected limb, ii) the least affected limb, and iii) both. Gait assessments using inertial sensors will acquire the spatial-temporal parameters. Surface-electromyography signals from lower-limb muscles as well as prefrontal cortex activity recorded from a portable functional near-infrared spectroscopy will be analyzed.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: This paper provides a thorough description of a randomized, controlled, cross-over, and single-blind clinical trial. Results can bolster understanding of the immediate impact of targeted strength exercise on gait asymmetry in PD, which can help in developing rehabilitation strategies to improve gait deficits in people with PD.
Performance measurement analysis of Sharia commercial banks in Indonesia with Maqashid Index and Sharia Conformity and Profitability (SCnP)
Authors: Asmar Mohd. Dimasqi Abandi , Andriansyah Yuli , Masuwd Mowafg
Published: February 2025

IntroductionSharia-compliant banking plays a vital role in Indonesia's Islamic financial sector, balancing ethical principles and market competitiveness. However, assessing the performance of these banks requires tools that capture both financial viability and alignment with maqasid al-shariah, or the higher objectives of Sharia.ObjectivesThis study evaluates the performance of Indonesian Sharia-compliant banks using the Maqashid Index, which measures ethical contributions, and the Sharia Conformity and Profitability framework, which integrates financial outcomes with Sharia compliance. The research aims to identify key strengths and gaps in these banks' performance and compare the insights provided by these two frameworks.MethodA quantitative approach was adopted, analyzing data from five prominent Sharia-compliant banks in Indonesia over the 2010–2018 period. The Maqashid Index assessed contributions to education, justice, and public welfare, while the Sharia Conformity and Profitability framework evaluated financial performance and compliance with Islamic principles. Comparative analysis was employed to identify areas of alignment and divergence between the frameworks.ResultsThe findings revealed that while Bank Syariah Mandiri and Bank BNI Syariah excelled in both frameworks, others displayed significant gaps in education and public welfare contributions despite high Sharia compliance. Divergences between financial profitability and ethical objectives underscore the need for integrated performance metrics.ImplicationsThis study emphasizes the importance of balancing financial and ethical dimensions in Islamic banking. It provides actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners, suggesting a roadmap for enhancing both societal impact and financial sustainability.Originality/NoveltyThis study advances knowledge in Islamic banking by applying a dual-framework evaluation approach, highlighting the complementary roles of the Maqashid Index and Sharia Conformity and Profitability framework in assessing Sharia-compliant bank performance.
Seismic Performance of Modal Transfer Stations on Soft Clays
Authors: Mayoral Juan M , Roman de la Sancha Azucena , Perez Mauricio , Rosas Jimena
Published: February 2025

Seismic performance evaluation of on-ground structures can be significantly affected by their in-teraction with underground structures. This effect becomes more relevant in densely populated areas where transportation systems such as tunnel metro lines and stations are commonly located nearby urban bridges and buildings. This paper presents the findings of a numerical study carried out to conduct the seismic evaluation of a typical urban modal transfer stations, comprised of bridge-building-tunnel systems, located in the high-plasticity Mexico City clays. Through a series of three-dimensional finite difference numerical models developed with the software FLAC3D, both detrimental and beneficial interaction effects among these structures are analyzed, establish-ing zones around each structure in which this interaction leads to ground motion variability, as well as the impact on both the building and bridge seismic performance. The parametric study was carried out considering both normal and subduction events for a return period of 250 years. Dis-tances among each structure were varied to cover a wide range of scenarios and to narrow poten-tial interaction effects. From the results gathered in here, the modification of seismic demand of the building and bridge is examined, and in turn, the cases where detrimental or beneficial interaction are established, identifying de interaction mechanisms within the simulated system.
Genome-Wide Characterization of the Accessible Chromatin Regions in Chickpea
Authors: Yang Lang , Liang Qi , Zhang Ling , Lv Xingbin , Tian Shuyun , Xiong Ying , Zhang Zhiyi , Huang Mingkun , Feng Chen , Yang Hua , Hu Yufang
Published: February 2025

Chromatin accessibility is important for genome architecture and gene expression in plants. In this study, the ATAC-seq method was utilized to identify accessible chromatin regions (ACRs) across the chickpea (Cicer arietinum) genome, an important legume crop cultivated worldwide. A total of 11,555 ACRs were identified in the chickpea genome, enriched at gene transcription start sites (TSS) and positively correlated with gene expression. Furthermore, as expected, a number of known transcription factor (TF) binding motifs were enriched in these ACRs. Integrating histone modification data, ACRs were found to be closely associated with H3K27ac and H3K4me3 modifications to regulate gene expression. In addition, the gain and loss of ACRs have been demonstrated to have significant effects on the expression of homologous genes. Collectively, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of the genomic function of ACRs in chickpea.
Intestinal Failure in Pediatric Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: A Case Series and Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Percul Carolina , Busoni Veronica , Izquierdo Carina , Lobos Pablo Andrés
Published: February 2025

Background: Vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (vEDS) is a rare connective tissue disorder characterized by collagen type III deficiency, predisposing to spontaneous arterial, uterine, and intestinal ruptures. While intestinal complications are recognized in vEDS, intestinal failure (IF) secondary to these complications is a rare and potentially life-threatening occurrence. This study aimed to describe the clinical presentation, surgical management, and outcomes of pediatric patients with IF secondary to vEDS and perform a and to provide a comprehensive review of the limited existing literature on this challenging clinical scenario.
Methods: This study comprises a case series of pediatric patients with IF due to vEDS complications and a comprehensive literature review. Clinical data, including age at diagnosis, surgical history, complications, nutritional status, and long-term outcomes, were collected from medical records. A literature review was performed to identify studies reporting gastrointestinal complications, surgical outcomes in pediatric vEDS patients and cases of intestinal failure. The literature search was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines.
Results: Two pediatric patients with vEDS and IF were included. Both patients experienced intestinal perforations and surgical complications and required long-term parenteral nutrition (PN). One patient required PN for 18 months before achieving enteral autonomy, while the other remains dependent. The literature review included 4 articles and revealed a high risk of complications, including anastomotic leaks, fistulae, and recurrent perforations, in patients with vEDS undergoing intestinal surgery. Delayed diagnosis of vEDS was common.
Conclusions: Intestinal complications in pediatric patients with vEDS can lead to severe short bowel syndrome and long-term PN dependence. Early diagnosis and a multidisciplinary approach are crucial for optimizing patient care and minimizing complications.
Adventist Education Values and Romanian Individualism
Authors: Stoicescu Mihai
Published: February 2025

Adventist Education Values and Romanian Individualism. Societies develop based on values ​​adopted over time. The Enlightenment was the one that produced the change from collectivism to individualism, which marked the transition from agrarian to industrial societies. Individualistic values ​​favored economic development, but they also brought with them a series of shortcomings. Although some studies place Romania among the specifically collectivist countries, some of the values ​​that underlie the Romanian education system are typically individualistic. Like any education system, the Adventist one is based on a series of values. Its challenge in Romania is to have an answer to the shortcomings of individualism.