bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Raman measurements using an acousto-optic tunable filter spatial heterodyne Raman spectrometer with an echelle-mirror structure
Authors: Li Fuguan , Yu Shuo , Li Xiaotian , Liu Jianli , Yu Guangdong , Jirigalantu  , Song Nan , Sun Ci , Chu Qihang , Sun Yuqi , Ni Qiliang , Bayanheshig
Published: December 2024

This study presents an acousto-optic tunable filter technology-based echelle-mirror spatial heterodyne Raman spectrometer (AOTF-EMSHRS) that integrates echelle gratings with mirror spatial heterodyne detection. The instrument uses the grating’s high resolution and the AOTF’s rapid wavelength selection capability to optimize the optical path through a mirror design. This results in a high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), high spectral resolution, and broad wavelength range measurements. After calibration, the theoretical resolution reached 1.53 cm−1, with a single-order spectral detection range of 1574.3 cm−1. The spectral detection range spans from 100 cm−1 to 4397 cm−1. Experimentally, we detected and analyzed various organic and inorganic substances and solutions. We compared EMSHRS performances with and without the AOTF and found that the SNR of the AOTF-EMSHRS system has improved by at least twofold. Additionally, we measured solutions with different molar concentrations, various sulfate mixtures, and mixtures in transparent containers made from different materials, obtained comprehensive spectral information, and conducted detailed analyses. The AOTF-EMSHRS demonstrated excellent measurement performance during complex sample detection and analysis.
Temperature and pump modulation investigation of an Er:Yb co-doped fiber laser with optimized SWaP
Authors: Panitzek Dieter , Romano Clément , Písařík Michael , Güntert Steffen , Picmausová Helena , Eichhorn Marc , Kieleck Christelle
Published: December 2024

This paper presents the results of experimental and theoretical studies of the influence of temperature and pump modulation on an erbium:ytterbium co-doped fiber laser in context for an optimized size, weight, and power (SWaP) integration. The fiber laser setup including the active fiber and pump diode lasers are heated up or cooled down for ranging temperatures from 0°C till 60°C and in parallel the output power is measured. Experimental results show that the slope efficiency of the fiber laser is constant over the measured temperature range. A slight decrease of the electro-optical conversion efficiency with increasing temperature is observed. Furthermore, the erbium:ytterbium co-doped fiber laser is pump modulated and the rise time as well as the frequency response is measured. The experimental results of the pump modulated fiber laser are compared with a time resolved simulation. The investigation shows that a minimum rise time of 36.6 µs and a maximum modulation depth of 9.4 dB can be reached. Moreover, the modulated laser amplitude is measured. The laser amplitude experiences a 3 dB attenuation at a modulation frequency of 20 kHz that agrees with the simulation results taking partly coupled ytterbium ions into account.
Virtual reference surface phase measuring deflectometry for high-precision freeform surface measurement
Authors: Zhang Nansheng , Wang Shanshan , Zhang Shaohui , Zhou Shuhong , Hao Qun
Published: December 2024

The phase measuring deflectometry (PMD) method has limitations in the measurement of mirror surfaces with large local curvature, such as large integration errors and overly dense fringes. This restricts its application in the detection of complex and high-precision freeform surfaces. This paper introduces a virtual reference surface phase measuring deflectometry (VRPMD) tailored for measuring complex freeform surfaces, grounded in the concept of slope difference measurement. The advantages of VRPMD over traditional PMD in high-precision measurement of large-curvature freeform surfaces are thoroughly explored through theoretical modeling, simulation analysis, and experimental validation. Furthermore, a surface self-referencing technique is proposed to address the high-precision alignment challenge between the virtual reference surface and the test surface due to the non-rotational symmetry of freeform surfaces. Comparative experiments with an interferometer and a profilometer demonstrate that the proposed method is a highly promising high-precision inspection technique for freeform surfaces.
Mobile-friendly under-sampling single-pixel imaging based on a lightweight hybrid CNN-ViT architecture
Authors: Jiang Wenjie , Song Jinze , Chen Zexi , Qu Shuai
Published: December 2024

Single-pixel imaging (SPI) using deep learning networks, e.g., convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and vision transformers (ViTs), has made significant progress. However, these existing models, especially those based on ViT architectures, pose challenges due to their large number of parameters and computational loads, making them unsuitable for mobile SPI applications. To break through this limitation, we propose mobile ViT blocks to bring down the computation cost of traditional ViTs, and combine CNNs to design what we believe to be a novel lightweight CNN-ViT hybrid model for efficient and accurate SPI reconstruction. In addition, we also propose a general-purpose differential ternary modulation pattern scheme for deep learning SPI (DLSPI), which is training-friendly and hardware-friendly. Simulations and real experiments demonstrate that our method has higher imaging quality, lower memory consumption, and less computational burden than the state-of-the-art DLSPI methods.
Active axial motion compensation in multiphoton-excited fluorescence microscopy
Authors: Kunisch Manuel , Beutler Sascha , Pilger Christian , Kiefer Friedemann , Huser Thomas , Wirth Benedikt
Published: December 2024

In living organisms, the natural motion caused by heartbeat, breathing, or muscle movements leads to the deformation of tissue caused by translation and stretching of the tissue structure. This effect results in the displacement or deformation of the plane of observation for intravital microscopy and causes motion-induced aberrations of the resulting image data. This, in turn, places severe limitations on the time during which specific events can be observed in intravital imaging experiments. These limitations can be overcome if the tissue motion can be compensated such that the plane of observation remains steady. We have developed a mathematical shape space model that can predict the periodic motion of a cylindrical tissue phantom resembling blood vessels. This model is then used to rapidly calculate the future position of the plane of observation of a two-photon laser scanning fluorescence microscope. The focal plane is continuously adjusted to the calculated position with a piezo-actuated objective lens holder. We demonstrate active motion compensation for non-harmonic axial displacements of the vessel phantom with a field of view up to 400 µm × 400 µm, vertical amplitudes of more than 100 µm, and at a rate of 0.5 Hz.
Theoretical insights into charge transfer plasmon lifetime
Authors: Koya Alemayehu Nana , Li Longnan , Li Wei
Published: December 2024

In this Letter, we present a theoretical study based on the Lorentz function and harmonic oscillator model to explore temporal dynamics of charge transfer plasmon (CTP) resonances. By fitting scattering curves and near-field oscillations, we determine the dephasing time of CTP modes in conductively connected gold nanodisk dimers. We show that, compared with the well-known particle plasmon and dimer plasmon modes, the CTP mode has a narrow spectral width and longer lifetime. Moreover, quantitative analysis of optical near-fields reveals that CTP modes oscillate completely out-of-phase with the particle plasmon and dimer plasmon modes. The dephasing time, near-field decay rate and charge transfer time of the CTP mode are found to be on a few femtosecond timescales, implying that conductively connected plasmonic nanoparticles hold great promise as channels for ultrafast transfer of information in all-optical computing and optoelectronic devices.
Costing the intergovernmental negotiating body (INB) process
Authors: Wenham Clare , Potluru Akhila
Published: December 2024

The Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB) was established to draft and negotiate a pandemic instrument to strengthen pandemic preparedness and response (PPR). This has been carried out under the auspices of the World Health Organization (WHO), and has to date involved 15 sessions in Geneva, plus countless hours both in informal working groups, and in capitals working on government positions on each substantive issue. This all comes at a cost, both in terms of human resource and travel costs associated with the development of an international treaty and its associated process. We begin to quantify the cost of this process as approximately US$ 201,343,032. If we also consider estimated costs for the parallel WGIHR process to be US$56,024,830, we estimate the total cost of this combined governance development to be US$257,367,862. We position this in the context of how much pandemic preparedness is thought to cost on an annual basis, and the opportunity costs of investing in this governance process instead of more operational areas of health security. Moreover, in doing so, we offer one of the first financial estimates of the cost of developing and negotiating multilateral treaties.
Evaluation of the cervical liquid-based cytology sample as a microbiome resource for dual diagnosis
Authors: Lim Chiwoong , Seo Young-Jun , Lee Ji-Yeong , Jung Eun Sung , Lee Sunyoung , Kim Hayoung , Kim Kidong , Kim Jun-Mo
Published: December 2024

Cervical cancer, which is mainly caused by oncogenic human papillomavirus subtypes, remains a significant global health challenge. Recent studies have indicated a connection between cervical cancer and the uterine microbiome, underscoring its importance. This study explored the potential of liquid-based cytology (LBC) samples, which are typically used for cytological analysis, in investigating the cervical microbiome. Thirty women participated in the study and provided clinical information. Three samples were obtained from each participant: one for clinical purposes using LBC, another for microbiome sampling using LBC, and a third using the SWAB Microbiome kit. The LBC and traditional swab (SWAB) samples were subjected to high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing for microbiome analysis. The results revealed a consistent dominance of key taxa, particularly Lactobacillus spp. The analysis of differential abundance highlighted variations in microbial abundance among individuals, which were more prominent than those resulting from the sampling methods. Functional analysis identified arachidonic acid and alpha-linolenic acid metabolism, along with a cautionary note regarding the low mean proportion values. The network analysis revealed positive correlations between indicators of structure among the networks, highlighting the robustness of microbiome similarities despite the diversity of sampling methods. Supervised machine learning has revealed challenges in distinguishing LBC and SWAB samples based on their microbiome features. Weighted co-expression network analysis revealed that the correlation between microbial clusters and the sampling method with clinical data was not significant. This study emphasizes the similarity in microbial communities observed using the LBC and SWAB methods, highlighting the potential of using dual diagnostic approaches. Additionally, the use of residual LBC samples in large-scale microbiological studies can provide comprehensive insights into cervical health and disease.
Short-term forecasting of solar irradiance using decision tree-based models and non-parametric quantile regression
Authors: Masache Amon , Mdlongwa Precious , Maposa Daniel , Sigauke Caston
Published: December 2024

The renewable energy industry requires accurate forecasts of intermittent solar irradiance (SI) to effectively manage solar power generation and supply. Introducing the random forests (RFs) model and its hybridisation with quantile regression modelling, the quantile regression random forest (QRRF), can help improve the forecasts’ accuracy. This paper assesses the RFs and QRRF models against the quantile generalised additive model (QGAM) by evaluating their forecast performances. A simulation study of multivariate data-generating processes was carried out to compare the forecasting accuracy of the models when predicting global horizontal solar irradiance. The QRRF and QGAM are completely new forecasting frameworks for SI studies, to the best of our knowledge. Simulation results suggested that the introduced QRRF compared well with the QGAM when predicting the forecast distribution. However, the evaluations of the pinball loss scores and mean absolute scaled errors demonstrated a clear superiority of the QGAM. Similar results were obtained in an application to real-life data. Therefore, we recommend that the QGAM be preferred ahead of decision tree-based models when predicting solar irradiance. However, the QRRF model can be used alternatively to predict the forecast distribution. Both the QGAM and QRRF modelling frameworks went beyond representing forecast uncertainty of SI as probability distributions around a prediction interval to give complete information through the estimation of quantiles. Most SI studies conducted are residual and/or non-parametric modelling that are limited to represent information about the conditional mean distribution. Extensions of the QRRF and QGAM frameworks can be made to model other renewable sources of energy that have meteorological characteristics similar to solar irradiance.
Nature Positive mining: Guidance for a critical transition
Authors: Victurine Ray , Anstee Stuart , Jones Kendall R. , Rainey Hugo , DeGemmis Alfred , Crowley Helen
Published: December 2024

Nature Positive is a concept and approach that focuses on restoring and enhancing nature to improve biodiversity, ecosystem health, and nature’s benefits to humanity. While the Nature Positive movement is gaining significant momentum, with 90 countries currently signed on, achieving its ambitious vision will require engagement and contributions from all sectors of society. Notably, both governments and the private sector will need to align and embrace transformative change. A comprehensive understanding and implementation of the mitigation hierarchy as a foundation is a first step. This will require commitment, regulation, incentives and actions to both halt the drivers of biodiversity loss and support appropriate biodiversity restoration and protection along supply chains. While there is guidance on reporting, disclosure and target setting through frameworks such as Science-Based Targets Network (SBTN) and the Taskforce on Nature-Related Financial Disclosures (TNFD), there is a need for a clear pathway for companies, investors and policy makers for achieving Nature Positive. In this paper, we review and describe how the Nature Positive concept intersects with global and national-scale policy instruments and identify a set of key principles which can support companies on a Nature Positive pathway. Focusing initially on corporate action we explore how the mining sector can test the model for transforming company operations to achieve nature positive outcomes. We chose mining given its importance to the global economy, its impact on land, and its burgeoning role in the energy transition to a low carbon economy through the provision of critical minerals. The value of the contribution to this transition will be undermined if mining activities exacerbate the loss of biodiversity. We illustrate a conceptual approach that can guide the mining sector, including some key metrics that can be used to track and communicate progress toward nature positive goals. The mining sector has been testing and implementing a range of approaches such as No Net Loss, Net Positive Impact, biodiversity offsets, and lender standards over the last two decades. This provides an excellent foundation upon which to build nature positive ambition and outcomes. Ultimately, the guidance for Nature Positive can be adapted and replicated across other sectors and provide policy makers with the appropriate proof-points that can align on regulation so that robust business practices can drive Nature Positive outcomes with benefits for both people and nature.
O QUE REALMENTE IMPORTA? FATORES QUE INFLUENCIAM O VALOR PERCEBIDO DE APLICATIVOS DE ENTREGA DE COMIDA
Authors: Zanquet Monique Aparecida , Tezza Rafael , Kieling Ana Paula
Published: December 2024

Objetivo – Este artigo pretende analisar o valor percebido pelo usuário dos aplicativos de delivery de comida (ADCs). O estudo objetiva investigar as dimensões de conveniência, usabilidade, confiabilidade, preço e diversas escolhas alimentares no valor percebido pelo usuário no contexto de aplicativos de entrega de alimentos para que a indústria possa adotar estratégias com base científica para aumentar seu alcance.
Desenho/metodologia – Foi realizada uma survey com uma amostra de 348 usuários de aplicativos de delivery de comida. Uma análise PLS-SEM foi implementada para analisar as dimensões que influenciam o valor percebido do usuário.
Resultados – Os resultados sugeriram que conveniência, confiabilidade e preço se correlacionam positivamente com o valor percebido dos aplicativos de delivery de comida. Além disso, destaca a dimensão do preço, mostrando um resultado contraintuitivo em comparação com a literatura anterior.
Limitações da pesquisa - As características da amostra dos participantes e o período de coleta transversal dos dados são limitações do estudo. O trabalho teve enfoque no estudo da dimensão de percepção de valor, não abrangendo relações com outras dimensões do uso de tecnologia.
Implicações práticas – Identificar os fatores que influenciam o valor percebido pelos usuários é essencial para desenvolver estratégias de marketing e expandir a adoção de tecnologia. As empresas podem considerá-lo para estabelecer preços, conteúdo de marketing digital e vendas. Ainda, os resultados apoiam a tomada de decisão dos designers de produto e pesquisadores de experiência do usuário (UX) ao criar protótipos de ADCs.
Originalidade - O estudo contribui para conceituar o valor percebido dos ADCs, aumentando o conhecimento da verdadeira natureza do valor percebido pelos consumidores num contexto de mercado emergente. Além disso, este estudo abrange as teorias desenvolvidas sobre o uso do m-commerce, ampliando-o como parte do comportamento do consumidor e do marketing de serviços.
DECIFRANDO A INTERAÇÃO COM EMPRESAS E A ORIENTAÇÃO PARA O MERCADO ENTRE PESQUISADORES NO BRASIL
Authors: Rossoni André Luis , Castilho Rossoni Renata Luiza de
Published: December 2024

Objetivo: Explorar a orientação para o mercado e a interação com empresas entre pesquisadores acadêmicos no Brasil, examinando como esses aspectos variam em função de áreas de formação e gênero.
Desenho/metodologia/abordagem: Utilização de uma metodologia quantitativa, baseada em dados coletados através de questionários dirigidos a uma amostra representativa de pesquisadores brasileiros.
Resultados: O estudo identifica uma correlação positiva e significativa entre orientação para o mercado e a interação com empresas. As áreas de Engenharias e Ciências Agrárias demonstram níveis mais altos dessas características, enquanto as Ciências da Saúde e Humanas exibem níveis mais baixos.
Limitações/implicações da pesquisa: Os resultados são específicos para o contexto brasileiro, limitando a generalização para outros contextos sem estudos adicionais. Baixa taxa de resposta dos pesquisadores e a possível falta de representatividade em algumas áreas de formação específicas.
Implicações práticas: O estudo sugere a criação de programas que incentivem os pesquisadores a engajarem-se com o setor empresarial. Recomenda-se o desenvolvimento de políticas institucionais que facilitem e valorizem parcerias entre universidades e empresas, como incentivos para projetos de colaboração e a simplificação de processos.
Implicações sociais: Promover uma maior colaboração entre universidades e empresas pode resultar em inovações que beneficiem a sociedade como um todo.
Implicações teóricas: Este estudo contribui para a teoria ao demonstrar como a orientação para o mercado e a interação com o setor empresarial podem variar entre diferentes áreas de formação e gêneros. Ele desafia perspectivas anteriores, destacando a necessidade de abordagens que considerem as especificidades de cada área e as diferenças de gênero.
Originalidade/valor: Amplia a compreensão sobre as interações entre o setor acadêmico e o setor privado no Brasil, oferecendo novas evidências sobre como a área de formação e o gênero influenciam essas dinâmicas. O estudo introduz insights para o desenvolvimento de estratégias mais eficazes de colaboração e orientação para o mercado, contribuindo para a formulação de políticas públicas que promovam uma maior inclusão e equidade na interação universidade-empresa.
SE ESSA RUA FOSSE MINHA, EU MANDAVA ABRIR OU FECHAR?
Authors: Albuquerque Mariene Cavalcante Borba de , Anjos Junior Eufrásio Vieira dos , Araújo Maria Valéria Pereira
Published: December 2024

Dilema do caso: O dilema é vivido por Diana, gestora pública, que, a partir das aprovações e reprovações dos munícipes, precisa decidir sobre o fechamento de uma via pública, com o objetivo de transformá-la em um atrativo turístico estratégico para cidade.
Objetivo Educacional: O objetivo deste caso é analisar o processo de intervenção turística e criação de políticas públicas de turismo ao discutir ações de melhoria para regiões com potencial turístico e utilizar conceitos como Plano Diretor e Formulação de Políticas Públicas.
Contexto do Caso: O caso trata da gestão turística do município de Canta Pedra, localizado no Nordeste do Brasil, em que se busca adaptar determinados pontos da cidade tornando-os atrativos turísticos. O local em questão é a “Rua do Sol”, uma das principais vias locais que se configura como um ambiente de lazer e entretenimento, tanto para turistas como para a população.
Tema principal: Políticas Públicas do Turismo.
Público: Sugerimos que o caso seja aplicado em cursos de graduação em Turismo; Arquitetura e Administração Pública nas disciplinas Planejamento Turístico; Políticas Públicas; e/ou Gestão Pública.
Coleta de dados: Os dados foram coletados em mídias sociais do município, e por meio de entrevistas a partir de roteiro semiestruturado com secretários, empresários e turistas.
Originalidade: Considerando que o turismo é uma atividade apontada como geradora de emprego e renda dos municípios, é significativo exercitar nos futuros gestores públicos o processo de tomada de decisão na gestão pública municipal que exige a compreensão de vários demandantes, documentos como Plano diretor, Estatuto das Cidades, e também reflexões sobre os impactos do desenvolvimento turístico local.
Visible materials, invisible meanings: colour-based hierarchies in the Middle Ages
Authors: Fachechi Grazia Maria , Virdis Alberto
Published: December 2024

The decision that oversaw the choices of pigments used in medieval artworks was based on multiple criteria. Among these was their economic value, often linked to the greater rarity of the raw material from which the pigments were derived, or to the lower availability on the market. Alongside the economic value, there was also the symbolic value attributed to materials and pigments from a symbolism often rooted in references found in the Holy Scriptures, in exegetical, theological, encyclopedic, or other texts. The case studies presented in this paper, based on works created with different media whose pigments underwent specific archaeometric analyses, show that throughout the Middle Ages, sometimes precise hierarchies were employed in the choice of pigments, and the most precious ones were reserved for the most important figures or the most significant details.
Lateralizing Value of Artificial Intelligence-Based Segmentation Software in MRI-Negative Focal Epilepsy
Authors: Park Kyung-Il , Son Hyoshin , Hwang Sungeun , Moon Jangsup , Lee Soon-Tae , Jung Keun-Hwa , Chu Kon , Jung Ki-Young , Lee Sang Kun
Published: December 2024

Background and Purpose: The magnetic resonance images (MRIs) ability of lesion detection in epilepsy is crucial for a diagnosis and surgical outcome. Using automated artificial intelligence (AI)-based tools for measuring cortical thickness and brain volume originally developed for dementia, we aimed to identify whether it could lateralize epilepsy with normal MRIs.Methods: Non-lesional 3-Tesla MRIs of 428 patients diagnosed with focal epilepsy, based on semiology and electroencephalography findings, were analyzed. AI-based segmentation/volumetry software measured the cortical thickness and the hippocampal volume. The laterality index (LI) was calculated.Results: We classified into temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE, n=294), frontal lobe epilepsy (FLE, n=86), occipital lobe epilepsy (OLE, n=29), and parietal lobe epilepsy (PLE, n=22). Onset age and MRI age were 24.0±16.6 (0-84) and 35.6±14.8 (16-84) years old. In FLE, the LI of frontal thickness was significantly different between the left and right FLE groups, with LIs of the right FLE group being right-shifted and those of the left FLE group being left-shifted, indicating that the lesion side was thinner than the non-lesion side (p=0.01). The discriminable group, which included the patients with left FLE and a LI lower than minus one standard deviation, as well as the patients with right FLE and a LI higher than one standard deviation, showed a longer duration of epilepsy than the non-discriminable group (12.7±9.9 vs. 8.3±7.7 years; p=0.03). Specifically, the LI of individual regions of interest showed that the rostral middle frontal cortex was significantly different in FLE. However, the TLE, PLE, OLE, and LIs were not significantly different.Conclusions: AI-based brain segmentation software can be helpful to decide the laterality of non-lesional FLE especially with longer duration of disease.
Impact of Perampanel for First-Episode Seizures versus Usual Care on Clinical Outcome and Safety Profile Aspects of the Thai Experience
Authors: Boontoterm Panu , Sakoolnamarka Siraruj , Urasyanandana Karanarak , Fuengfoo Pusit
Published: December 2024

Background and Purpose: Epilepsy increases poor outcomes in patients with post-traumatic brain injury and brain tumor-related epilepsy, for whom early seizure control is essential. Perampanel (PER) was a known third-generation antiepileptic drug for treatment all types of seizures. The objective of the study is to compare clinical outcomes and safety of PER administration as monotherapy.Methods: A prospective study of all 84 patients assigned to PER monotherapy (PER group, n=36) and other first-line antiepileptic drugs (n=48). Clinical outcomes parameters were measured by the prevalence of patients with a diminish in seizure frequency at 50% in 28 days. From November 1, 2020 to April 30, 2024, comparing the PER group with usual care. Clinical outcomes included adherence rate and seizure-free proportion at 28 days and 6 months. Adverse drug reactions were recorded in both groups.Results: There was no difference in demographic data and incidence of adverse drug reactions between two groups. Median PER dosage was 4 mg (range, 2-12 mg). Compared to other antiepileptic drugs, the PER group had a prevalence of 50% responder rate at 28 days and 6 months significantly were 75%, 81%, 65%, and 51% respectively. Common adverse drug reactions were somnolence and dizziness.Conclusions: PER administration as monotherapy demonstrated good efficacy and less adverse drug reactions. Low dosages helped to decrease adverse drug reactions andimproved retention rate.
New Onset Absence Status Epilepticus in Pregnancy: A Case Report
Authors: Mutlu Onur Anil , Türk Bengi Gül , Asan Furkan
Published: December 2024

Absence status epilepticus may occur in persons diagnosed with idiopathic/genetic epilepsy as well as de novo in adult and elderly patients. Despite being a rare phenomenon, pregnant women with no previous history of epileptic seizures may be presented with new onset status epilepticus. In this report, we describe the case of a 22-year-old pregnant female with no prior history of seizures. The patient was admitted to our center with reduced spontaneous speech and perplexity. Electroencephalography showed continuous, generalized synchronous paroxysms of 3 Hz spike-wave complexes. The patient’s clinical condition improved following the administration of diazepam and levetiracetam. To the best of our knowledge, we describe the first case of new onset absence status epilepticus during pregnancy.
Is Israeli Millennials’ Web Comedy Less Politically Engaged? How Social Media Might Hamper Satire
Authors: Rosen Ido
Published: December 2024

This paper claims that Israeli web content creators are less politically engaged and overtly critical in comparison to local filmmakers who have been creating for cinema and television. Their comedy leans towards lighthearted nonsense and avoids taking a stand on controversial topics. It is argued that this can be explained by both universal and uniquely local reasons. In general, web creators are not judged by the same standards of artistic quality that is attributed to films and TV shows. Therefore, they choose different topics and aesthetics, which might appear less “substantial” or “artistic” by traditional perceptions. Also, Millennials are often considered by critics to be less rebellious and more self-centered. In addition, Israeli society has become more right-wing, nationalist, and religious. Contemporary culture therefore favors crowd-pleasing optimism over critique or complaints that ‘spoil the party’. Furthermore, artists’ self-censorship is affected by a growing lack of tolerance, which is sometimes expressed through social media outrage, and might cause severe damage to their careers. Based on these explanations, this paper then analyzes three independent web comedies which touch upon the debatable topic of Jewish settlements in the occupied territories, and the national-religious community, yet do it with varying degrees of criticism.
Abbas Kiarostami’s The Wind Will Carry Us in a Biblical Context
Authors: Szpulak Andrzej
Published: December 2024

After outlining the state of research, the article presents an interpretation of Abbas Kiarostami’s film The Wind Will Carry Us (1999), made using the concept of mythic narrative developed by the author two decades ago. The author reconstructs the deep structure of the story and the mechanisms inscribed in it for the transformation of the main character, and his transition from the state of inner death to life. Taking advantage of its narrative openness and symbolic universality, he inscribes it in a close biblical context. He also considers this procedure legitimate because of the concept of “unfinished cinema” repeatedly presented and affirmed by the director.
Nowe kino saudyjskie. O twórczości Meshala Al Jasera
Authors: Linek Ewa
Published: December 2024

The author analyzes two films by the young Saudi director Meshal Al Jaser: Is Sumiyati Going to Hell? (2016) and Can I Go Out? (2017), in which she focuses on the situation of two social groups – women and migrant workers. The analysis is preceded by a short introduction to the social and cultural situation in Saudi Arabia, together with a description of the conditions that have only recently enabled the emergence of filmmaking in this country and shaped its specificity. The author focuses on the content of the films analyzed, interpreting them in the context of Saudi reality, as well as on the director’s characteristic style, which often employs the convention of grotesque. This text tries to show how the artistic choices made by Al Jaser allow him to portray the chosen social phenomena in their depth and complexity.
Platformy streamingowe i ich wpływ na lokalny rynek audiowizualny
Authors: Morozow Iwona
Published: December 2024

The article focuses on outlining the potential direction of research on the Polish audiovisual market in the face of its platformization. The aim is to analyze and problematize the contexts of cooperation between an independent, local production company and a global platform in the film production process. It is an attempt to capture the characteristics of this cooperation by juxtaposing general industry practices with work culture, standards and rules specific to selected platforms and the long-term effect in the form of a potential impact on the diversification of production and its content. The outlined issues will be analyzed on the basis of industrial reflexivity based on cooperation with Netflix and HBO Max, collected using the method of partially structured in-depth interviews.
Spróchniałe gałęzie. Upadek rodziny w Buddenbrookach Tomasza Manna i Zmierzchu bogów Luchina Viscontiego
Authors: Sławnikowski Jędrzej
Published: December 2024

The topic of this article is the depiction of the fall of the family in Luchino Visconti’s film The Damned and Thomas Mann’s novel Buddenbrooks, which served as a major inspiration for the former. The comparison of both works centers on two pairs of opposite attributes: the fall of the Buddenbrooks is characterised as gradual and internal, whereas the von Essenbeck family from The Damned declines in a rapid and external manner. These differences are studied in connection with such issues as the role of historical events in both works, the similiarities and dissimilarities between certain characters, as well as the impact of Shakespeare’s Macbeth on the narrative structure of The Damned. The nature of Visconti’s inspiration with Mann’s work and the connection between both artists are also discussed.
Morze Czarne w użyciu wtórnym, czyli o transonimizacji hydronimów
Authors: Gola Jolanta
Published: December 2024

The article is related to my scientific research in the previous stages of studies, i.e. master’s studies in Slavic studies in the field of Croatian studies and bachelor’s studies in Slavic studies in the field of Bulgarian studies – with vocabulary related to water topics. This article aims to: determine how many dehydronym lexemes Черно море (The Black Sea) exist in Bulgaria, verify which objects are given such proper names and check whether it is possible to observe the dependence of the given names on geographical space, i.e. whether transonyms derived from the hydronym Черно морe occur most often near the reservoir itself or on the outskirts of Bulgaria. As I prove in the following considerations, the hydronym Черно море is quite a common and willingly used proper name. As a result of the transonymization process, dehydronymous names are used secondarily and are used to name hodonyms, ojkonyms or chrematonyms. Both in Bulgarian and Polish, water names are quite expansive and are often better and more widely known than their hydronymous prototypes.
Какво е Черно море за българите? Опит за когнитивна дефиниция
Authors: Сотиров Петър
Published: December 2024

The object of study is the concept of the Black Sea and its aim to explain the mental image Bulgarians have of it. The concept is explored as a cultural concept, which has features not only of a cognitive, but also of a pragmatic, emotional and cultural nature. The analysis was conducted on linguistic material, which includes systematic data extracted from lexicographic and encyclopedic sources, as well as textual data taken from the Bulgarian National Corpus, media publications and authored artistic texts. Based on the analysis, a synthetic cognitive definition of the concept was formulated. The research confirms the hypothesis that the content of the concept of the Black Sea in the understanding of the Bulgarians is very rich. It includes a large number of traits relating to different aspects. Among these aspects with the greatest wealth, the geographical, economic and cultural aspects stand out. Also noticeable is the presence of the political, military and psychological aspects, as well as the psychosocial, domestic and linguistic aspects. It is essential that the linguistic material reveals important information of an axeological nature. It allows us to conclude that among Bulgarians the idea of the sea as a value and a universal good dominates among Bulgarians.
Middle Ages or Renaissance? Rapacka on Marulić
Authors: Bogdan Tomislav
Published: December 2024

The famous Polish Slavist Joanna Rapacka published three studies on Marko Marulić. After they came out as separate publications, she collected them under the title Fragmenti o Maruliću (Fragments on Marulić). Rapacka refers to Marko Marulić extensively in several other works, such as the articles in her Leksykon tradycji chorwackich (Lexicon of Croatian Traditions) or in synthesizing studies on the formation of the modern Croatian nation and on regionalism in pre-modern Croatian literary culture. Her views of Marulić are worth citing and examining for two reasons: because they can still be relevant for the understanding of Marulić’s literary works and because in present-day Croatian studies they have not had the appreciation they deserve. Rapacka groups Marulić, and particularly the vernacular part of his opus, closely together with the poetics of the European literary Middle Ages, while Croatian literary historiography has in the last few decades exerted great efforts to “demedievalize” Marulić. When one reads the writings of Rapacka carefully, it becomes clear that she sees him as the first great author of medieval Croatian literature.
The Archetypal Character of Eve: A Comparative Overview of Modern Czech, French and Canadian Literatures
Authors: Střelec Karel
Published: December 2024

There are very few archetypal characters being more important for European cultural tradition than the Biblical first woman – Eve. As evidenced by literary onomastic research, the very use of semantically loaded first names implies intertextual connectedness, fulfilling – in most cases – associative and symbolic functions. This reference to archetypal stories and heroes makes it possible to create a multitude of new semantic layers, but it also serves to keep their original sense in cultural and collective memory. In our contribution, we seek comparative analysis and interpretation of selected characters, bearing the name of Eve, in modern French, Canadian and Czech literatures. The study focuses on variants, shifts, and similarities that, to varying extents, refer to the first Biblical woman. Throughout both the national literatures, we observe forms of the pretext−posttext relation and concrete onymic functions of the name of Eve in the time span from the close of the 19th century to the present day.
Uśmiech komparatystki
Authors: Ewertowski Tomasz
Published: December 2024

The subject of the article is a review of Jelena Marićević Balać’s book, Ka osmehu Evrope: Savremeno srpsko, poljsko i češko pesništvo u komparativnom ključu (Toward Europe’s Smile: Contemporary Serbian, Polish, and Czech Poetry from a Comparative Perspective), which was published in Novi Sad in 2023. Marićević Balać’s book presents a collection of concise comparative studies, organized into four distinct sections, each revolving around a thematic focal point (culture; nature and culture; ecopoetics; avant-garde). Within the review, a summary of the book’s contents is provided. Additionally, the review delineates the strengths and weaknesses of Marićević Balać’s work.
Na fali zmian… Barokowe wpływy i serbska literatura XVIII wieku
Authors: Lis-Wielgosz Izabela
Published: December 2024

This article is a review of Justyna Romanowska’s study entitled The Polish-UkrainianRussian Contexts of Metaphysical Poetry of Serbian Baroque (published by Scriptum, Kraków, 2022). This book focuses on the influences of Polish-Ukrainian-Russian poetical strategies, contexts and patterns on Serbian metaphysical poetry in the 18th century . Justyna Romanowska’s study is a part of the discussion on the developmental process of Serbian literature, as well as the long debate on the existence of the Baroque era in Serbian literature.
Черно море като политическа и културна метафора. (Наблюдения върху „Червената Ривиера“ на Кристен Годси и „Златните прахоляци“ на Силвия Шедлецка)
Authors: Янев Кристиян
Published: December 2024

The article analyzes the image of Black Sea littoral as a cultural and political metaphor for the processes in Bulgaria’s communist and post-communist period. Two outside critical perspectives on the recent Bulgarian history are compared – Kristen Ghodsee’s ethnographical study based on small histories of Bulgarians working in the tourism industry, whose lives were affected by the Transition period, and Sylwia Siedlecka’s collection of non-fiction texts on the physical and mental remnants of communist past, which continue to shape the present. The article outlines the image of the pre- and post-1989 period presented in the books, arguing that in both cases the sea metaphor (Red Riviera for the communist seaside project and Golden Dusts for the remains of the communist past in the post-communist present) challenge the common foreign stereotypes about Bulgaria (i.e., the Black Sea resorts, the touristic attractions).
Bulgarian and Georgian Fictional Geographies and Coastscapes as Bridges for a Comparative Black Sea Literature
Authors: Ljuckanov Jordan
Published: December 2024

The article drafts the notions of a spiritual-material landscape and of a coastscape amidst correlative notions like spiritualized material landscape, seascape, geography and cosmography. Against this theoretical context, it picks up a pair of literary works, one Bulgarian and one Georgian, that (re)shape regional marine imaginary on the levels of geography and of land-/sea-/coastscapes. It shows how they, in various degrees, model regional geography in the vein of alternative history. Both works are shown to “Levantinise” the life-worlds of their respective nations of extratextual origin, within a moderate move towards self-inclusion into a wider world and “westernisation”. The analysis of the pair charts a macroscopic typology and presupposes a history of alternative fictional geo-history and of metaliterature across the region. The comparison conveys a shared hesitation between a will for “archipelagic” experiencing of sea and for “thalassic” one.
Exploring the therapeutic potential of Asparagus africanus in polycystic ovarian syndrome: a computational analysis
Authors: Riaz Sania , Haider Fatima , ur-Rehman Rizwan- , Zafar Aqsa
Published: December 2024

PCOS is a multifaceted condition characterized by ovarian abnormalities, metabolic disorders, anovulation, and hormonal imbalances. In response to the growing demand for treatments with fewer side effects, the exploration of herbal-origin drugs has gained prominence. Asparagus africanus, a traditional medicinal plant that exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-androgenic properties may have a cure for PCOS. The plant has rich biochemical profile prompted its exploration as a potential source for drug development. The aim of this study is to investigate the potential therapeutic efficacy of A. africanus in the management of PCOS through molecular docking studies with Luteinizing Hormone Receptor and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Receptor proteins. The identified compounds underwent molecular docking against key proteins associated with PCOS, namely Luteinizing Hormone Receptor and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Receptor. The results underscored the lead compound’s superiority, demonstrating favorable pharmacokinetics, ADME characteristics, and strong molecular binding without any observed toxicity in comparison to standard drug. This study, by leveraging natural compounds sourced from A. africanus, provides valuable insights and advances towards developing more effective and safer treatments for PCOS. The findings contribute to the evolving landscape of PCOS therapeutics, emphasizing the potential of herbal-origin drugs in mitigating the complexities of this syndrome.
Yield assessment of new streak-resistant topcross maize hybrids in Benin
Authors: Emeraghi Mary , Iseghohi Innocent , Idohou Jacob , Mkpuma Kenneth C. , Agbandou Pinawé C. , Afouda Leonard , Akponikpe Pierre I. , Hotegni Nicodeme V. Fassinou , Missihoun Antoine A. , Oselebe Happiness , Achigan-Dako Enoch G.
Published: December 2024

Maize (Zea mays L.) is the foremost cereal consumed in Benin but its production is constrained by the lack of access to high-quality seeds for intensification of the crop; hence, the continued cultivation of disease-susceptible, low-yielding, and open-pollinated varieties (OPVs). The study (i) evaluated the agronomic performance and heterosis of topcross hybrids (THs) developed from a cross between new streak-resistant inbred lines and Benin-adapted OPVs, (ii) estimated the combining ability of the parental materials for grain yield (GY), and (iii) assessed the relationship between GY and other agronomic traits. Eleven OPVs were crossed to two inbred lines in a line × tester mating design to generate 22 THs. The THs were evaluated across four environments in Benin. The environment had a significant effect on GY and agronomic traits. General and specific combining ability effects were significant for GY and other traits indicating the presence of additive and non-additive gene effects. Four THs exhibited positive mid- and better-parent heterosis for GY and DMR ESR W × TZIL07A01322, which is the highest yielding TH, at 5.1 tons per hectare, had 29.1 and 13.3% yield advantages over its mid-parent and better-parent mean yields, respectively, with the potential for commercialization by indigenous seed enterprises. GY was positively associated with 100-seed weight enabling indirect selection. Four OPVs contributed favorably to observed heterosis and could serve as potential genotypes for inbred line extraction.
Modelos de distribución potencial de encinos (Quercus): un estudio en la cuenca de Cuitzeo
Authors: Pimienta Ramírez Lucero , Reyes Abrego Gerardo Andrés , Ortega Rodriguez Juan Manuel
Published: December 2024

En la cuenca de Cuitzeo, los encinos forman parte indispensable de la vegetación natural y juegan un papel crucial en el equilibrio ecológico. Sin embargo, el conocimiento ecológico de sus especies amenazadas y en peligro de extinción es limitado. El objetivo de este estudio fue modelar la distribución potencial y caracterizar las condiciones ambientales de tres especies de encinos pertenecientes al género Quercus. Utilizando el algoritmo MaxEnt y variables ambientales, se obtuvieron los perfiles geográficos y ambientales. Los resultados muestran la confiabilidad de los modelos (AUC = <1) y que las áreas potencialmente aptas para Quercus crassipes (amenazada) abarcan 2285 km², mientras que para Q. frutex (en peligro) y Q. glaucoides (amenazada) son de 742.44 km² y 254 km², respectivamente. Estas zonas idóneas se encuentran al sur, suroeste y sureste de la cuenca. Los mapas resultantes proporcionan una visión del hábitat óptimo de estas especies y pueden servir como una herramienta para su conservación.
The History and Evolution of the Back Squat in the United States
Authors: Heffernan Conor
Published: December 2024

This article provides the first academic history of the barbell back squat and its evolution from a bodyweight exercise in the 19th century to a loaded exercise, used for a variety of purposes, in the present age. In doing so, the article highlights 3 key drivers in the evolution of the back squat—those being changes in equipment, the diversification of strength sports, and scientific communication concerning the safety and efficacy of the movement. The goal of this article was not to provide a dry and irrelevant history but rather to stress the complexity of the squat's prominence within fitness programs and the need to hold a nuance view toward the “optimal” way to approach this movement. In doing so, it examines how the movement evolved from 1 primarily done on the tips of one's toes, to a loaded movement on tippy toes, to a flat footed movement. By contextualizing the back squat's history, this article challenges rigid notions of “correct” squatting technique and encourages a more nuanced understanding of exercise selection in strength and conditioning practice. It concludes by highlighting the importance of critically examining the social construction of knowledge in fitness and sport, and the value of historical perspective in informing contemporary training practices.