bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monitoring of induced distributed double-couple sources using Marchenko-based virtual receivers
Authors: Brackenhoff Joeri , Thorbecke Jan , Wapenaar Kees
Published: August 2019

Abstract. We aim to monitor and characterize signals in the subsurface by combining these passive signals with recorded reflection data at the surface of the Earth. To achieve this, we propose a method to create virtual receivers from reflection data using the Marchenko method. By applying homogeneous Green’s function retrieval, these virtual receivers are then used to monitor the responses from subsurface sources. We consider monopole point sources with a symmetric source signal, for which the full wave field without artifacts in the subsurface can be obtained. Responses from more complex source mechanisms, such as double-couple sources, can also be used and provide results with comparable quality to the monopole responses. If the source signal is not symmetric in time, our technique based on homogeneous Green’s function retrieval provides an incomplete signal, with additional artifacts. The duration of these artifacts is limited and they are only present when the source of the signal is located above the virtual receiver. For sources along a fault rupture, this limitation is also present and more severe due to the source activating over a longer period of time. Part of the correct signal is still retrieved, as is the source location of the signal. These artifacts do not occur in another method that creates virtual sources as well as receivers from reflection data at the surface. This second method can be used to forecast responses to possible future induced seismicity sources (monopoles, double-couple sources and fault ruptures). This method is applied to field data, and similar results to the ones on synthetic data are achieved, which shows the potential for application on real data signals.
Prediction of monthly Arctic sea ice concentration using satellite and reanalysis data based on convolutional neural networks
Authors: Kim Young Jun , Kim Hyun-Cheol , Han Daehyeon , Lee Sanggyun , Im Jungho
Published: August 2019

Abstract. Changes in Arctic sea ice affect atmospheric circulation, ocean current, and polar ecosystems. There have been unprecedented decreases in the amount of Arctic sea ice, due to the global warming and its various adjoint cases. In this study, a novel one-month sea ice concentration (SIC) prediction model is proposed, with eight predictors using a deep learning approach, Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN). This monthly SIC prediction model based CNN is shown to perform better predictions (mean absolute error (MAE) of 2.28 %, root mean square error (RMSE) of 5.76 %, normalized RMSE (nRMSE) of 16.15 %, and NSE of 0.97) than a random forest (RF)-based model (MAE of 2.45 %, RMSE of 6.61 %, nRMSE of 18.64 %, and NSE of 0.96) and a simple prediction model based on the yearly trend (MAE of 9.36 %, RMSE of 21.93 %, nRMSE of 61.94 %, and NSE of 0.83) through hindcast validations. Spatiotemporal analysis also confirmed the superiority of the CNN model. The CNN model showed good SIC prediction results in extreme cases that recorded unforeseen sea ice plummets in 2007 and 2012 with less than 5.0 % RMSEs. This study also examined the importance of the input variables through a sensitivity analysis. In both the CNN and RF models, the variables of past SICs were identified as the most sensitive factor in predicting SIC. For both models, the SIC-related variables generally contributed more to predict SICs over ice-covered areas, while other meteorological and oceanographic variables were more sensitive to the prediction of SICs in marginal ice zones. The proposed one-month SIC prediction model provides valuable information which can be used in various applications, such as Arctic shipping route planning, management of fishery industry, and long-term sea ice forecasting and dynamics.
Factors affecting Attitudes towards Adoption of Mobile Banking: Users and Non-Users Perspectives
Authors: Chakiso Cherinet Boke
Published: August 2019

The advent and dispersal of technology is an interesting area of study since its success is dependent on the attitude for the adoption of it by customers. Extant literature indicates that mobile banking is the least adopted type of electronic banking when compared to other types of banking like Automated Teller Machine (ATM), despite its being the cheapest and quickest mode of communication. This study empirically examines and tests factors affecting users and non-users’ attitude towards the adoption of mobile banking. Data were collected from 256 participants both from users and non-users of mobile banking. Collected data were analyzed using chi-square, ANOVA, and correlation analysis. Findings indicate that trust, perceived ease of use, relative advantage, and compatibility have strong correlations with both users and non-users’ adoption towards mobile banking. However, perceived risk is found to have no significant relationship with users and non-users’ attitude towards the adoption of mobile banking.  Moreover, it is found that there is a difference between users and non-users’ attitude towards the adoption of mobile banking.  Furthermore, managerial implications, limitations of the study and future research directions were discussed.
Structure and Strategies of Multinational Enterprises in Nigeria
Authors: Oladimeji Moruff Sanjo , Eze Benneth Uchenna , Akanni Kazeem Adeyinka
Published: August 2019

This study sought to examine the effect of organization structure on organization strategy. Survey research design was employed through the administration of structured questionnaire to staff of Nestle Nigeria PLC, Unilever Nigeria PLC and PZ (Cussons) PLC. The findings revealed that, organization structure positively and significantly affects  strategy implementation  (F stat 107.52* 0.000) and that organization structure account for 53% (Adjusted R2= 0.5312) variation in organization strategy. It can therefore be concluded that, organization structure plays a significant role in strategy formulation and implementation in Nigeria multinational enterprises. It could be seen that, global matrix structure and product division structure are the most critical elements of organization structure driving strategy implementation in a multinational firm. It is therefore recommended that, multinational firms in Nigeria should employ matrix structure towards the enhancement of their organization strategy. This is because matrix structure has the highest effect on organization strategy.
Volatility Model Choice for Sub-Saharan Frontier Equity Markets - A Markov Regime Switching Bayesian Approach
Authors: Korkpoe Carl Hope , Howard Nathaniel
Published: August 2019

We adopt a granular approach to estimating the risk of equity returns in sub-Saharan African frontier equity markets under the assumption that, returns are influenced by developments in the underlying economy. Four countries were studied – Botswana, Ghana, Kenya and Nigeria. We found heterogeneity in the evolution of volatility across these markets and also that two-regime switching volatility models describe better the heteroscedastic returns generating processes in these markets using the deviance information criteria. We backtest the results to assess whether the models are a good fit for the data. We concluded that, the selected models are the most suitable for predicting the volatility of future returns in the markets studied.
Book Review of “India’s Recent Inward Foreign Direct Investment: An Assessment”
Authors: PL Beena
Published: August 2019

This book is focused on analysing the limitation of the existing Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) statistics in India. The trends, composition and quality of FDI inflows in India after the initiation of ‘Make in India’ (MII) policy are critically analysed. This is done with a comparative perspective on the nature and quality of FDI since 1990.
A formação do conceito na teoria de Vigotski: Contribuições para o ensino da ginástica na Educação Física
Authors: Vasconcelos Carolina Moura , Pacifico Martineli Telma Adriana , Almeida Eliane Maria
Published: August 2019

O estudo objetivou compreender a concepção de formação de conceito cotidiano e científico, segundo a teoria vigotskiana, com vistas a contribuir para o ensino da ginástica, na educação física. Portanto, realizou-se levantamento das produções científicas sobre formação de conceito, bem como estudo de obras clássicas de Vigotski a fim de elaborar uma proposta de ensino da cultura corporal, que possibilite a formação dos conceitos científicos. A partir do movimento ginástico salto, estabeleceu-se a sistematização de ensino em quatro fases: captação dos conceitos cotidianos; mediação do professor pela linguagem; captação dos conceitos científicos; e comparação entre esses conceitos. Por intermédio desse processo de ensino, identifica-se a capacidade de generalização do aluno.
Educação Física, ensino médio e juventude: vamos falar sobre crise?
Authors: Bungenstab Gabriel Carvalho
Published: August 2019

Este ensaio se insere no debate atual que procura analisar as relações que são estabelecidas entre a Educação Física (EF), o Ensino Médio (EM) e a juventude no cenário brasileiro. O objetivo é mostrar, a partir do diagnóstico da crise da instituição escolar, que as atuais propostas/reformas educacionais dirigidas ao EM afetam também a discussão a respeito da juventude e da EF escolar, fazendo com que elas também iniciem um processo de crise. O texto sugere, com um olhar epistemológico, que a inserção do EM dualista traz o retorno de uma visão de jovem pautada pela perspectiva geracional e anuncia uma nova era da crise de legitimidade da EF dentro do contexto do EM.
The Effect of Internal Control on the Competitive Advantage of the Bank
Authors: Mahmoud AlSharif Bader Mustafa , Fattah Al-Slehat Zaher Abdel
Published: August 2019

The current study aims at identifying the effect of internal control on the competitive advantage of the bank with its three dimensions (administrative, financial and operational control) on the competitive advantage of the bank. The analytical, descriptive and deductive approaches were applied in the current study. The current study is a field study in terms of nature and explanatory in terms of purpose because it aims at revealing the cause and effect between internal control and competition. In terms of time horizon, it is a cross-sectional study applied on a sample that composes of all employees of the internal control department in banks.137 questionnaires were distributed to the employees of Internal Control Department of the banks; 106 of which were retrieved, with a recovery rate of 77.36%. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to test the hypotheses of the study and to answer its questions through Simple & Multiple Linear Regression. Among the most important results of the study was a statistically significant effect of internal control (administrative, financial and operational control) on the competitive advantage of the bank. The study recommended the establishment of an efficient internal control department through linking it to the director of audit or the general manager, and the feedback of such department shall be taken into consideration and the reasons of such feedback shall be identified without delay in order to reduce the risks, increase profits and raise the level of performance, and thus, increase the competitive advantage of the bank.
Quantitative structure-activity relationship to elucidate human CYP2A6 inhibition by organosulfur compounds
Authors: Ramirez Daniela Andrea , Marchevsky Eduardo , Luco Juan Maria , Camargo Alejandra
Published: August 2019

CYP2A6 is a human enzyme responsible for the metabolic elimination of nicotine, and it is also involved in the activation of procarcinogenic nitrosamines, especially those present in tobacco smoke. Several investigations have reported that reducing this enzyme activity may contribute to anti-smoking therapy as well as reducing the risk of promutagens in the body. For these reasons, several authors investigate selective inhibitors molecules toward this enzyme. The aim of this study was to evaluate the interactions between a set of organosulfur compounds and the CYP2A6 enzyme by a quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) analysis. The present work provides a better understanding of the mechanisms involved, with the final goal of providing information for the future design of CYP2A6 inhibitors based on dietary compounds. The reported activity data were modeled by means of multiple regression analysis (MLR) and partial least-squares (PLS) techniques. The results indicate that hydrophobic and steric factors govern the union, while electronic factors are strongly involved in the case of monosulfides.
Stiffness and strength of structural layers from cohesionless material
Authors: Gerber Ulf , Sysyn Mykola , Zarour Jandab , Nabochenko Olga
Published: August 2019

The deformation modulus and permissible stress are two independent parameters that depict the carrying capacity of foundations, including earthworks and ballast layer. Nevertheless, while designing the track superstructure or controlling its state, they are considered separate to each other, even though they are terms of the same measure. The scientific problem is due to the practical necessity of unified building rules and standards. The carrying capacity of earthworks and foundations is regulated with standards based both on deformation and on stress criteria, which are not related to each other. This plays particularly important role for railway ballast layer, as an intermediate between the solids and soil. The objective of the present research is to estimate the relationship between deformation modulus and the strength of ballast layer. An overview of modern approaches according to the relation between the stiffness, deformation modulus, elasticity and strength of soils and crushed stone is done. The strength of ballast layer is considered depending on the experimental test: the direct shear test, compressive strength in the uniaxial or biaxial stress state. Load transfer model in crushed stone is proposed. The load transfer angle and cone of loading distribution are determined based on the load transfer and compressive strength models. The relation between deformation modulus and strength is derived from two simple laboratory experiments with cohesionless ballast material. The experiment tests have shown that the ballast stiffness as well as its strength are influenced with the support stress. The measurement of elastic and residual settlements for the different support stress values enables to determine the relation. It can be potentially used for the development of methods for the ballast compaction control, unification of construction norms. The research result should be considered as an approach for unification of two different ways to reflect the carrying capacity of ballast layer.
Geometric factors influencing entry capacity of roundabouts under heterogeneous traffic conditions
Authors: Zacharia Arun Baby , Madhavan Harikrishna , Anjaneyulu M. V. L. R.
Published: August 2019

Roundabout entry capacity is influenced by geometric features of the roundabout, traffic flow characteristics, vehicle and driver characteristics, as well as, environmental conditions. The major methods for estimating roundabout entry capacity are based on either gap acceptance theory or on empirical relations. Roundabout geometry is the sole aspect which can be entirely manipulated by the designers to improve the entry capacity. Limited studies have been conducted to analyze the influence of geometric elements of a roundabout on its capacity, for heterogeneous traffic conditions. Many developing countries like India, Malaysia, Indonesia etc., have heterogeneous traffic conditions on their roads. Data is collected from twenty-one entries of six roundabouts, where heterogeneity in traffic is observed. Seven different vehicle categories are considered such as motorised two wheeler, three wheeler, car, mini bus, light commercial vehicle (LCV), heavy commercial vehicle (HCV) and bus. A non-linear regression model is proposed to predict entry capacity, based on the nature of variation with individual geometric elements. Various combinations of independent variables are used to estimate entry capacity. The non-linear correlations among the geometric variables are checked. In comparison with the existing empirical models such as the LR942 regression model and German empirical model, the proposed regression model produced better estimates and much lower RMSE values. Approach width is found to have the highest impact on entry capacity. The entry capacity is found to be negatively influenced by entry angle. Circulating flow is considered in terms of per metre width against the usual convention. This modification incorporates the effect of circulatory roadway width also into consideration. The circulatory roadway width has a diverse effect on entry capacity at different levels of circulating flow. Modification of inscribed circle diameter and circulatory roadway width is suggested as a potential solution for improving entry capacity. Sensitivity analysis is carried out to quantify the effect of variation of entry angle, circulatory roadway width, inscribed circle diameter and approach width on entry capacity based on the non-linear model. The sensitivity plots can be used to make subtle geometric modifications to improve capacity at congested roundabouts.
AFRICA’S REGIONAL APPROACH
TO CONFLICT PREVENTION, SECURITY MANAGEMENT: „ECOWAS VISION 2020 - PEACE, HUMAN RIGHT AND SECURITY”
Authors: Ayambire Andrews
Published: August 2019

This paper reviews the role of ECOWAS in promoting peace, human right and security in West Africa through the established vision 2020. The function of ECOWAS has always been creating a peaceful and enabling environment for cooperation and regional integration as a tool to enhanced development of the West African economy. Regional integration remains the most viable and appropriate tool for achieving and accelerating peace, human right and security among West African countries. With regard to the above function, the group in June 2007 adopted the transformational vision 2020 focused on the free move-ment of the population, greater access to efficient education and health, engaging in eco-nomic activities, raising the standard of living. This paper examines ECOWAS quest for peace, human right and stability on the continent within the conventional vision 2020. It highlights areas that require review to make peace and security more effective.
ADMINISTRATION OR PUBLIC MANAGEMENT. DILEMMAS OF CONTEMPORARY PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Chochowska Anna
Published: August 2019

The challenges faced by contemporary public administration enforce constant adaptation to the existing social, political and economic realities. Therefore, the question of how to organize a well-functioning, efficient and effective public administration constantly arises. To this end, it seems necessary to conduct research on the organization and models of public administration, developed so far by the doctrine of administrative law. The aim of the analysis of these concepts is to join the discussion on the optimal functioning of public administration in a contemporary legal state, whose primary goal should be to implement the principles of social justice.
REGULATIONS OF FINANCIAL LAW AS REGARDS FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Authors: Stefański Marian
Published: August 2019

The financial statement of the business unit ends the work of the accounting department giving a preliminary view of the company's operations. The numbers and data included in it should be a reliable way to include all operations during the financial year of a unit. Thanks to financial reporting it is possible to translate accounting data into information necessary to manage the company and its assessment by external recipients.
METHODS OF PREVENTING DOUBLE TAXATION IN THE AREA OF PERSONAL INCOME TAXATION INCLUDING THE RULES OF FREE MOVEMENT OF WORKERS
Authors: Żuk Krzysztof
Published: August 2019

In European Union countries, income from hired labor is taxed in the country in which the work is done. Regardless of this, taxpayers who are subject to unlimited tax liability in Poland are obliged to settle this income also in Poland. To avoid double taxation of the same income, double taxation conventions are concluded between countries. They provide for two methods of avoiding double taxation: the exclusion method with progression and the method of proportional deduction (credit, tax credit). Certain double taxation conven-tions concluded by Poland, exempt from taxation in Poland the income from hired work performed in another country (taxed in the country in which the work was performed). These incomes are taken into account in the annual settlement submitted in Poland only when the taxpayer also achieved income subject to taxation in Poland on general principles. Income from work abroad, exempted from taxation under a bilateral agreement, is then used to determine the interest rate, which will then be applied to the taxation of income in Poland.
FINANCIAL ASPECT OF CYBERCRIME: SITUATION IN UKRAINE AND THE WORLD
Authors: Myskiv Galina , Irshak Olesya
Published: August 2019

Cybercrime is clearly linked with financial relations: for some, it is profit, for others – expenses or big losses. The article contains the research of the essence, causes, conse-quences and counteraction to computer fraud in Ukraine and countries of the world, as well as research of financial flows that accompany these processes. However, the authors tried to analyze quantitatively and qualitatively the dynamics of cybercrimes. It also focus-es on bodies that provide cybersecurity and normative legal documents in this area. The authors concluded that cybersecurity in Ukraine has not been sufficiently developed yet, which requires adopting the experience of cybercrime prevention in the advanced countries of the world and enhanced cooperation between international law enforcement agencies.
EXPLANATION OF THE HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF ALTERNATIVE PUNISHMENTS
Authors: Gejdoš Miroslav
Published: August 2019

In the academic paper, the author deals with the description of alternative punishments in the historical context. In particular, he focuses on the historical background of the devel-opment of punishments, the issue of imposing punishments in the territory of Slovakia from the earliest times, perceiving mainly the Middle Ages and the Modern History. He expertly explains the execution and imposition of various forms of punishment in the given period in the territory of Austria-Hungary as well as in the latter Czechoslovak Re-public until the beginning of the nineties. The aim of alternative punishments is to keep the convicted person out of prison and to impose that kind of sanction that will prevent any further crime and will protect society. The aim of this paper is to introduce various philosophical concepts that have influenced the development
Une saison en wolof
Authors: Chaudemanche Alice
Published: August 2019

Dans l’activité littéraire de Boubacar Boris Diop en wolof, la création romanesque et l’auto-traduction ont jusqu’ici fait l’objet de plus d’attention que sa traduction de la pièce d’Aimé Césaire, Une saison au Congo (1973), publiée sous le titre Nawetu deret (2016). Nous présenterons cet objet littéraire complexe, à la fois adaptation théâtrale, traduction postcoloniale et nouveau texte écrit en wolof, en tâchant de le situer au sein du champ littéraire wolophone. Dans un premier temps, nous reviendrons sur le projet de Boubacar Boris Diop de traduire Césaire pour la scène sénégalaise et sur les effets de cette re-territorialisation sur le dispositif énonciatif de la pièce. Nous examinerons ensuite la manière dont Nawetu deret, en tant que pièce de théâtre en wolof, participe à la diffusion d’un art dramatique fondé sur le texte. L’importance accordée au texte écrit nous conduira à interroger le rôle de la traduction dans l’élaboration d’une littérature produite en wolof, entre normalisation et création.
« Rira bien, tu riras le damné » : jeux de mots et enjeu des mots dans Za de Raharimanana
Authors: Sofo Giuseppe
Published: August 2019

Cet article vise à proposer une analyse du rôle de la langue que Raharimanana a conçue pour Za, le protagoniste de son roman éponyme de 2007. Une attention toute particulière sera accordée aux jeux de mots et au rire, qui amènent l’auteur à produire, dans le personnage de Za, une figure de la déconstruction des mots et des mondes. Cette déconstruction de la langue est en effet loin d’être un simple jeu ou un exercice de style : elle constitue également une prise de position politique et poétique par rapport au pouvoir et à la gestion de la langue qu’orchestre ce dernier, à Madagascar et, plus généralement, dans le monde contemporain. Le rire de Za permet ainsi de dévoiler le vrai enjeu de la réappropriation d’un verbe amputé de sa valeur : la reconquête de la liberté.
Materiality, Affect, and the Archive
Authors: Gruner Mariah
Published: August 2019

This paper examines contemporary needlework on vintage handkerchiefs, identifying a new genre of feminist needlework and considering the ways in which these works reveal the possibility of a feminist nostalgia. These works complicate the dichotomy between simple embrace or disavowal of the value of historical needlework, both of which rely on the essentialized connection between needlework and normative femininity. Looking to the work of Leslee Nelson, Joetta Maue, Allison Manch, and Ke-Sook Lee, I argue that the materiality and history of the handkerchief form render it a mediating object, one that enables an affective and physical engagement with an unwritten archive of women’s labours and sentiments. The handkerchief provides contemporary needleworkers with a way of exploring the feminine legacy of embroidery in new ways, as the handkerchief form evokes its historical relationships with remembrance, exchange, coded communication, sexuality, embodiment, and the regulation and subversion of gendered norms. Through the medium of the handkerchief and process of embroidery, these makers engage with femininity as a historical substance, something repeated in performance and sedimented in material objects and gestures, and as an archive they can intervene upon and find themselves in relationship with.
A View of Managership and Leadership from 30,000 Feet
Authors: Muczyk Jan , Adler Terry
Published: August 2019

To the extent that there is considerable ambiguity and overlap when it comes to defining the managership and leadership constructs and their components, progress in advancing the field has appreciably slowed; but the frustration of scholars and practitioners is not abated. Hence, what is needed is a good faith effort to take a look at these constructs from 30,000 feet in order to get a better view of the ambiguities and overlaps which are harder to detect from the ground level. Such an effort invariably requires an historical perspective. Precise definitions of management and leadership constructs are necessary so that researchers possess adequate constructs required for formulating testable hypotheses. Moreover, international and American scholars need to be on the same page. Until that is accomplished, progress in advancing the field will continue to be stymied. Toward that end, this effort attempts to identify the ambiguities and overlaps and proposes tentative solutions.
Developing design literacy for sustainability
Authors: Maus Ingvill Gjerdrum
Published: August 2019

This article discusses the case study Case Keramikk, examining students’ use of experiential learning from a craft-based design practice in life cycle thinking on their products. Data were constructed through semi-structured group interviews with students of a Norwegian lower secondary school and thematic analysis based on the principles and practices of design for sustainability (DfS). The interview questions engaged the students to assess their practice and products and to estimate environmental considerations. The students used experiential learning that correspond with the DfS practices of eco-efficiency, eco-effectiveness and product durability in the production phase, as well as the distinctive characteristics of materials, products and production decisive for practice of these in the material extraction and use and disposal phases. These reflections enhance students’ development of design literacy for sustainability and strengthen their democratic participation in research for development of education in craft-based design for sustainability.
Ngwevu intloko: a new early sauropodomorph dinosaur from the Lower Jurassic Elliot Formation of South Africa and comments on cranial ontogeny inMassospondylus carinatus
Authors: Chapelle Kimberley E.J. , Barrett Paul M. , Botha Jennifer , Choiniere Jonah N.
Published: August 2019

Our knowledge of Early Jurassic palaeobiodiversity in the upper Elliot Formation of South Africa has increased markedly in recent years with the discovery of new fossils, re-assessments of previously collected material and a better understanding of Stormberg Group stratigraphy. Here,Ngwevu intloko, a new genus of upper Elliot basal sauropodomorph is named on the basis of a complete skull and partial skeleton (BP/1/4779) previously assigned toMassospondylus carinatus. It can be distinguished from all other basal sauropodomorphs by a combination of 16 cranial and six postcranial characters. The new species is compared to a small ontogenetic series ofM. carinatusas well as to a range of closely related taxa. Taphonomic deformation, sexual dimorphism and ontogeny are rejected as possible explanations for the morphological differences present between BP/1/4779 and other taxa. Osteohistological examination reveals that BP/1/4779 had nearly reached adult size at the time of its death at a minimum age of 10 years.
The role of past experience in development of feeding behavior in common vampire bats
Authors: Berrío-Martínez Jineth , Kaiser Samuel , Nowak Michelle , Page Rachel A. , Carter Gerald G.
Published: August 2019

The life history strategy of common vampire bats (Desmodus rotundus) suggests that learning might play a role in development of their foraging skills. We took advantage of 12 captive births in a study colony of vampire bats to test the role of past experience in two aspects of feeding. First, we compared preferences for blood temperature in 32 wild-born vampire bats versus 11 captive-born vampire bats that had only previously fed on blood of ambient temperature or colder. We found no evidence for a preference in either group for blood presented at 4 °C versus 37 °C. Second, we tested whether captive-born vampire bats with no previous experience of feeding on live animals could successfully feed on a live chicken. Five of 12 naïve captive-born bats were able to bite the chicken and draw blood, but only one bat gained more than 5% of body mass. We were unable to reasonably compare their feeding performance with that of wild-born bats because only two of three wild-born, short-term captive bats fed on the chicken and none of the seven wild-born, long-term captive mothers attempted to feed. This unexpected lack of feeding might be due to a previously reported age-dependent neophobia. When six of the captive-born bats were released in the wild, they appeared to feed successfully because they survived for more than three consecutive nights. We suggest further tests that would better clarify the role of learning in the development of foraging in vampire bats.
Blood on the Wind and the Tablet of Destinies
Authors: Wisnom Selena
Published: August 2019

Enūma eliš and Erra and Išum are richly intertextual poems that both make sophisticated allusions to Anzû. Both do so in competitive ways: Enūma eliš reshapes earlier motifs towards its goal of elevating Marduk and Babylon over the gods and cities that came before them, while Erra and Išum uses allusions to undermine the image of Marduk that Enūma eliš creates. Tiʼāmtu’s blood carried on the wind to announce Marduk’s victory and the tablet of destinies which Tiʼāmtu fastens to Qingu’s chest are two well-known examples of borrowings from Anzû in Enūma eliš. This article traces them through all three poems and shows how they are transformed in each. In the case of Enūma eliš the way that the poem deploys these allusions has previously been called clumsy because they stand out and do not appear to fit seamlessly into the narrative. Yet a closer analysis reveals that they have been much better integrated than is usually recognized, and that their subtleties make important contributions to the program of Marduk supplanting Ninurta. In Erra and Išum the chain becomes ever more complex: the motifs refer back both to their original contexts in Anzû and to their occurrences in Enūma eliš, implying a self-conscious awareness and exploitation of techniques used by earlier poets.
Cross My Heart and Hope to Die
Authors: Mikati Rana
Published: August 2019

This article examines the development of the ritual of mubāhala, a category of oaths and mutual self-cursing, during which two individuals seek to confirm the veracity of their creedal position by appealing to God’s curse upon them. Based on a prophetic precedent embedded in Q 3:61 and reported as a challenge purportedly employed by the Companions Ibn Masʿūd and Ibn ʿAbbās, I argue that the practice of resorting to mubāhala in the Sunni tradition goes through two main phases of reinvention and legitimation before its reappearance in the contemporary Muslim world. The first phase belongs to the anti-Monist controversies of the seventh to ninth/thirteenth to fifteenth centuries, while the second appears among reformist scholars starting in the late eighteenth century.
Shishak and Shoshenq
Authors: Wallenfels Ronald
Published: August 2019

The conventional history of the ancient Near East at large, including Egypt and the eastern Mediterranean basin, contains several “Dark Ages,” poorly documented transitional periods of uncertain length. James et al. 1991 have argued that the most significant of these Dark Ages—the transition from the Late Bronze to the Iron Age during the last two centuries of the second millennium BCE—is largely an artifact of an overly long reconstruction of the Egyptian Third Intermediate Period, and that this Dark Age presents itself in every chronology linked to the Egyptian. A wide variety of often seemingly contradictory scientific, archaeological, art-historical, and philological evidence has been adduced to argue for the status quo, or to lengthen or to shorten by up to several centuries the relative chronology for this period . This review article comments on the papers presented at the Third BICANE Colloquium held at Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge (2011), summarizing a variety of recent positions taken in the ongoing evaluation of James et al. 1991, testing the specific proposition that the tenth century BCE biblical Egyptian King Shishak is to be distinguished from the historical Egyptian King Shoshenq I, who is now to be situated about a century later in the latter half of the ninth century BCE. the wider historical implications of this proposed distinction are examined in new detail.
Around Abhinavagupta: Aspects of the Intellectual History of Kashmir from the Ninth to the Eleventh Century. Edited by Eli Franco and Isabelle Ratié
Authors: Reich James
Published: August 2019

Around Abhinavagupta: Aspects of the Intellectual History of Kashmir from the Ninth to the Eleventh Century. Edited by Eli Franco and Isabelle Ratié. Leipziger Studien zu Kultur und Geschichte Süd- und Zentralasiens, vol. 6. Berlin: LIT Verlag, 2016. Pp. xx + 682. €89.90.
The Quṣṣāṣ of Early Islam. By Lyall R. Armstrong
Authors: Judd Steven C.
Published: August 2019

The Quṣṣāṣ of Early Islam. By Lyall R. Armstrong. Islamic History and Civilization, vol. 139. Leiden: Brill, 2017. Pp. xii + 342. $165, €135.
Samarqand et le Sughd à l’époque ‘abbāsside: Histoire politique et sociale. By Yury Karev
Authors: Azad Arezou
Published: August 2019

Samarqand et le Sughd à l’époque ‘abbāsside: Histoire politique et sociale. By Yury Karev. Studia Iranica, Cahiers, vol. 55. Paris: Association pour l’Avancement des Études Iraniennes, 2015. Pp. 372. €40 (paper).
Bronze Age Towers at Bat, Sultanate of Oman: Research by the Bat Archaeological Project, 2007– 12. By Christopher P. Thornton; Charlotte M. Cable; and G. L. Possehl
Authors: Yule Paul A.
Published: August 2019

The Bronze Age Towers at Bat, Sultanate of Oman: Research by the Bat Archaeological Project, 2007– 12. By Christopher P. Thornton; Charlotte M. Cable; and G. L. Possehl. Museum Monographs, vol. 143. Philadelphia: The University Museum, 2016. Pp. 352, illus. $69.95.
Antibiotic Susceptibility Profile and Prevalence Pattern of Gram Negative Pathogens in Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Joshi Pradnya , Khan Z. A. , Tandle Reema , Harshe Amol , Bhutada Amruta , Gogavale Sunita
Published: August 2019

Background and Objective: Large amounts of antibiotics consumed by the human population have resulted in the culmination of pathogenic bacteria resistant to multiple drugs. The resistance profile of pathogens differ from one geographical location to another and keeps on changing continuously.

Methods: A retrospective observational analysis of antibiogram data was performed to characterize the susceptibility pattern of different pathogen isolates from various clinical sources. A total of 213 clinical isolates identified from the period June 2015 to June 2016 were included in the study.

Results: Of the 213 Gram-negative isolates, 36.6% were from urine, 23.9% from respiratory specimens, 11.74% from blood, 10.33% from pus whereas 17.37% were from other sources. E. coli (42.25%) was most predominant pathogen isolated followed by K. pnuemoniae. (25.35%) and Pseudomonas spp. (15.96%) while other Gram-negative pathogens contributed 16.4%.  Antibiogram analysis has shown CSE-1034 as the most susceptible drug exhibiting 91.1%, 77.8%, 82.4% and 82.3% susceptibility against E. coli, K. pneumoniae, A. baumannii and P. aeruginosa. Among carbapenems, both meropenem and imipenem-Cilastin were most effective against E. coli. Meropenem was least effective against K. pneumoniae (50%) and imipenem against P. aeruginosa (32.35%). Like imipenem, Piperacillin-Tazobactam was highest effective against E. coli (20%) and lowest against P. aeruginosa (26.47%).

Conclusion: Susceptibility profile indicates CSE-1034 (a novel antibiotic resistance breaker) as the most effective drug among all the classes of antibiotics against the Gram-negative pathogens. A high resistance to piperacillin-tazobactam and penems, advocates use of CSE-1034 as empiric drug of choice in the treatment of bacterial infectious diseases where the pathogen isolates are suspected resistant towards β-lactam and β-lactamase inhibitor combinations.
Assessment of Blood Storage Effect Using CPDA-1 on Packed Cell Volume, Oxyhaemoglobin and Methaemoglobin in Different ABO/Rhesus Blood Types
Authors: Christian Serekara Gideon , Eze Evelyn Mgbeoma , Nkom Ndueghe Ebenezer
Published: August 2019

Aims: The aim of this study is to determine the effect of blood storage using CPDA-1 on packed cell volume, methaemoglobin and oxyhaemoglobin in different ABO/Rhesus blood types donated by some residents of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.

Study Design: This is a comparative study aimed at evaluating the effect of storage on the levels of methaemoglobin, oxyhaemoglobin and packed cell volume using CPDA-1. A total of eight donors were recruited with each sample obtained from the eight (8) known blood groups A+,B+,O+,AB+,    A-,B-,O-,AB- and analysis of samples were in triplicate. The donors were adult males with age ranging from 35-45 years and they were apparently healthy and free from transfusion transmissible infections. The different blood group samples were stored for 30 days and samples for analysis were collected at 5 days interval.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. All blood donors were residents of Port Harcourt. Blood donated was stored at Military Hospital Blood Bank, Port Harcourt, in a blood bag of 450 ml containing 63 ml of citrate phosphate dextrose adenine-1 (CPDA-1). The analysis was carried out at Rivers State University, Post Graduate Laboratory within March 1st to May 27th, 2019.

Methodology: A total of eight (8) different ABO/Rhesus blood types (A+,B+,AB+,O+,A-,B-,AB- and O-) were collected and stored using a blood bank refrigerator at temperature of 4°C. Day 0 was taken to be control and 5 days intervals in-between to day 30 acted as the test. Packed cell volume was estimated using micro-haematocrit method while oxyhaemoglobin and methaemoglobin levels were estimated spectrophotometrically as described by Evelyn and Malloy.

Results: The result showed a significant decrease in mean packed cell volume, oxyhaemoglobin and methaemoglobin levels compared to a higher mean of these parameters in the control; and  these differences were statistically significant (p<0.05) across all blood groups under study. The decrease in values were as a result of haemolysis that occurs during storage.

Conclusion: Storage of blood irrespective of the blood group type using CPDA-1 for 30 days indicates that there are “storage lesions”. This is attributed to red cell haemolysis and ageing of red blood cells. In general, all blood types showed no significant difference in their haematological (packed cell volume, methaemoglobin, oxyhaemoglobin) characteristic deterioration or storage lesion based on blood type differences. It is therefore necessary to state that storage lesion characteristics are the same irrespective of the blood type, and that fresh blood be transfused, and if blood is stored, prolonged storage beyond 10 days should be avoided.
STAR STUDIES TERHADAP KONTRUKSI IMAGE ANDROGYNOUS YOUTUBER “JOVI ADHIGUNA HUNTER”
Authors: Pradika Gabrielle Julietta , Hadi Ido Prijana , Lesmana Fanny
Published: August 2019

Penelitian star studies terhadap YouTuber Jovi Adhiguna Hunter dengan pendekatan kualitatif deskriptif dilakukan dengan melihat bagaimana konstruksi image yang dibentuk oleh Jovi Adhiguna. Melalui analisa menggunakan metode star studies milik Richard Dyer, Christine Gledhill, dan Jane Stokes ditemukan bahwa Jovi Adhiguna menggunakan pendekatan dramaturgi untuk menciptakan citra positif bagi dirinya. Jovi mendukung kaum LGBT, namun tidak mengakui sebagai bagian dari kaum LGBT. Jovi Adhiguna Hunter menjadikan dirinya sebagai komoditas laki-laki androgini yang cantik dalam profesinya sebagai YouTuber.
PKC induces release of a functional ectodomain of the guidance cue semaphorin6A
Authors: St. Clair Riley M. , Dumas Caroline M. , Williams Kori S. , Goldstein Matthew T. , Stant Elizabeth A. , Ebert Alicia M. , Ballif Bryan A.
Published: August 2019

Semaphorins (Semas) are a family of secreted and transmembrane proteins that play critical roles in development. Interestingly, several vertebrate transmembrane Sema classes are capable of producing functional soluble ectodomains. However, little is known of soluble Sema6 ectodomains in the nervous system. Herein, we show that the soluble Sema6A ectodomain, sSema6A, exhibits natural and protein kinase C (PKC)‐induced release. We show that PKC mediates Sema6A phosphorylation at specific sites and while this phosphorylation is not the primary mechanism regulating sSema6A production, we found that the intracellular domain confers resistance to ectodomain release. Finally, sSema6A is functional as it promotes the cohesion of zebrafish early eye field explants. This suggests that in addition to its canonical contact‐mediated functions, Sema6A may have regulated, long‐range, forward‐signaling capacity.
Angiopoietin‐Tie signaling in kidney diseases: an updated review
Authors: He Fang‐Fang , Zhang Di , Chen Qing , Zhao Yi , Wu Liang , Li Zhen‐Qiong , Zhang Chun , Jiang Zhao‐Hua , Wang Yu‐Mei
Published: August 2019

Angiopoietins (Angs) are a family of vascular growth factors that share multiple cellular functions related to cell survival, proliferation, and migration. Angs play physiological and pathological roles through the Tie tyrosine kinase receptors. The Ang‐Tie signaling pathway participates in the developmental and tumor‐induced angiogenesis and is also involved in many disease settings, such as vascular diseases, systemic inflammation, and cancers. Since Angs are widely expressed in the kidney, an enormous amount of research focuses on their roles in the kidney. In this review, we describe the biological functions of the Ang‐Tie signaling pathway and summarize their roles in kidney development and maturation, acute and chronic kidney diseases, diabetic nephropathy, lupus nephropathy, hemolytic uremic syndrome, end‐stage renal diseases, and renal cell carcinoma. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of Ang‐Tie signaling may reveal potential therapeutic targets for preventing or alleviating kidney diseases.
Crosstalk of endoplasmic reticulum exit sites and cellular signaling
Authors: Centonze Federica G. , Farhan Hesso
Published: August 2019

The synthesis, quality control, and trafficking of a third of the eukaryotic proteome takes place at the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), which is the largest cellular organelle. Thus, biosynthetic trafficking from the ER, although constitutive, has to be tightly controlled. Increasing evidence indicates that the ER acts as a platform that initiates signaling events. In this review, we focus on signaling pathways that target components of the ER export machinery to regulate protein export. In addition, we discuss how signaling generated at the ER regulates various homeostatic cellular processes such as cell growth and proliferation, and how the deregulation thereof is involved in disease.
Porous Fibers Composed of Polymer Nanoball Decorated Graphene for Wearable and Highly Sensitive Strain Sensors
Authors: Huang Tao , He Peng , Wang Ranran , Yang Siwei , Sun Jing , Xie Xiaoming , Ding Guqiao
Published: August 2019

Wearable textile strain sensors that can perceive and respond to human stimuli are an essential part of wearable electronics. Yet, the detection of subtle strains on the human body suffers from the low sensitivity of many existing sensors. Generally, the inadequate sensitivity originates from the strong structural integrity of the sensors because tiny external strains cannot trigger enough variation in the conducting network. Inspired by the rolling friction where the interaction is weakened by decreasing interface area, porous fibers made of graphene decorated with nanoballs are prepared via a prolonged phase‐separation process. This novel structure confers the graphene fibers with high gauge factors (51 in 0–5% and 87 in 5–8%), which is almost 10 times larger than the same structures without nanoballs. A low detection limit (0.01% strain) and good durability (over 6000 circles) are obtained. By the virtue of these qualities, these fiber‐based textile sensors can recognize a pulse wave and eyeball movement in real‐time while keeping comfortable wearing sense. Moreover, by weaving such fibers, the electronic fabrics with a specially designed structure can distinguish the multilocation in real time, which shows great potential as wearable electronics.