bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social Movements and the Collective Identity of the Star Trek Fandom: Boldly Going Where No Fans Have Gone Before, David G. Loconto (2020)
Authors: Gellis Eliza
Published: September 2023

Review of: Social Movements and the Collective Identity of the Star Trek Fandom: Boldly Going Where No Fans Have Gone Before, David G. Loconto (2020)

Lanham, MD: Lexington Books, 252 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-79360-700-3, h/bk, $105.00
Horrible White People: Gender, Genre, and Television’s Precarious Whiteness, Taylor Nygaard and Jorie Lagerwey (2020)
Authors: Konkle Amanda
Published: September 2023

Review of: Horrible White People: Gender, Genre, and Television’s Precarious Whiteness, Taylor Nygaard and Jorie Lagerwey (2020)

New York: New York University Press, 271 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-47980-535-8, p/bk, $30.00
A Portrait of the Auteur as Fanboy: The Construction of Authorship in Transmedia Franchises, Anastasia Salter and Mel Stanfill (2020)
Authors: Alberto Maria K.
Published: September 2023

Review of: A Portrait of the Auteur as Fanboy: The Construction of Authorship in Transmedia Franchises, Anastasia Salter and Mel Stanfill (2020)

Jackson, MI: University Press of Mississippi, 234 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-49683-047-0, p/bk, $30.00
Prevalence and molecular characterization of Giardia intestinalis isolated from children and calves in Babylon province, Iraq
Authors: Alseady Haider H. , Al-Dabbagh Sahad M. K. , Marhash Ali D.
Published: September 2023

Background and Aim: Giardia intestinalis is one of the most prevalent intestinal parasites in humans and animals, and children in close contact with livestock are particularly at risk of infection. This study aimed to detect assemblages of G. intestinalis and determine the origin of zoonotic transmission of Giardia in children and calves in different parts of Babylon province, Iraq.

Materials and Methods: One hundred stool samples from children (68 boys and 32 girls) and 100 fecal samples from calves (46 males and 54 females) of different ages were randomly collected. Molecular techniques were used to estimate the prevalence of G. intestinalis in children and calves. A nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed by targeting the triose phosphate isomerase gene in the samples to detect G. intestinalis assemblages.

Results: The overall rates of infection with G. intestinalis in children and calves were 21% and 34%, respectively, using the conventional microscopic method. The results illustrated that 61.90% (13/21) and 38.09% (8/21) of positive samples from children were allocated to assemblages A and B, respectively (p > 0.05). In calves, assemblages A and B were detecte in 82.35% (28/34) and 17.64% (6/34) of positive samples from calves, respectively (p ≤ 0.001). Ten PCR products were sequenced and submitted to the GenBank database. Phylogenetic analysis detected five human sequences each belonging to G. intestinalis assemblages A (OM850335–OM850339) and B (OM850340–OM850344). Similarly, five calf sequences each belonged to G. intestinalis assemblages A (ON75756–ON757660) and B (ON757661–ON757665).

Conclusion: The detection of large numbers of G. intestinalis assemblage A in both humans and cattle indicated that cattle could be a main source of zoonotic G. intestinalis infection in children in Babylon province, Iraq.

Keywords: assemblages, calves, children, Giardia intestinalis, nested polymerase chain reaction, triose phosphate isomerase, prevalence.
Recombinant Salmonella enterica OmpX protein expression and its potential for serologically diagnosing Salmonella abortion in mares
Authors: Borovikov Sergey , Ryskeldina Anara , Tursunov Kanat , Syzdykova Alfiya , Akibekov Orken
Published: September 2023

Background and Aim: Salmonella abortion in mares is caused by Salmonella enterica subspecies enterica serovar abortus equi infection and is characterized by premature (abortion) or non-viable fetus birth. Although all horses are susceptible to infection, the condition is more often clinically manifested in pregnant mares, with most abortions recorded in young females. In addition, nonspecific clinical disease signs and poorly sensitive and effective bacteriological diagnostic methods hinder rapid and reliable infection diagnoses. Immunochemical methods such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunochromatography assays can facilitate effective and rapid diagnoses. However, they require highly specific and active antigens and antibodies. This study aimed to generate a recombinant S. enterica outer membrane protein X (OmpX) and evaluate its suitability for serological diagnosis of Salmonella abortion in mares.

Materials and Methods: Outer membrane protein X from the S. enterica antigen was synthesized de novo and expressed in Escherichia coli using the pET28 vector. Transformed E. coli cells were cultured under different conditions to detect recombinant OmpX (rOmpX) expression, and rOmpX purification and refolding were both conducted using metal affinity chromatography. Refolded and purified rOmpX was characterized by western blotting, liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry, and ELISA.

Results: After optimized rOmpX expression, a 23 kDa molecular weight protein was identified. Amino acid sequence analysis using Mascot program suggested that these peptides were the OmpX protein from S. enterica. High specificity and diagnostic efficiency were recorded when rOmpX was used in ELISA against 89 serum samples from aborted and contact mares.

Conclusion: Recombinant outer membrane protein, in comparison to the O antigen, demonstrated better diagnostic characteristics against sera from mares who aborted and contact horses.

Keywords: diagnostics, outer membrane proteins, recombinant antigens, Salmonella abortion in mares, Salmonella enterica, specific antibodies.
Közösen a Klebelsberg-telep közösségéért
Authors: Királykuti Anna
Published: September 2023

Szeged Klebelsberg-telepen egy olyan sajátos közösség van jelen, amely különösen fontosnak tartja a múlt értékeit és a lokális örökséget. Klebelsberg Kuno nagy hatással volt a településrész fellendülésére is, ezért a helyi közösség máig megemlékezik a munkásságáról. Napjainkban a telepi közösségben elsősorban az idősebb lakosok számára fontosabb a hagyományok és a Klebelsberg iránti tisztelet megőrzése. Problémát jelent, hogy a fiatalabb generáció kevésbé kapcsolódik be a hagyományok ápolásába és a közösségi életbe. Újvári Edit Tanárnővel egy TDK dolgozat keretén belül végeztünk kutatást a városrész közösségéről, hagyományairól, illetve megoldást kerestünk a helyi generációs problémára is. Kidolgoztunk egy fiataloknak szóló programot, amely őket is bevonja a lokális értékek megőrzésébe, s mindezt meg is fogjuk valósítani. Közös munkánk eddigi eredményei személyes és szakmai szempontból is meghatározóak számomra, s a munkánk folytatása is biztosan újabb közös sikereket fog eredményezni.
Mikrokutatás kikapcsolódásként
Authors: Bozsó Renáta
Published: September 2023

-
Madár – szavakból
Authors: Buda Attila
Published: September 2023

Poe egyik legismertebb versének magyar fordításai, a nyelv és az ornitológia találkozása
Changes in Grocery Shopping Attitudes and Behaviors
Authors: Eileen  , Fowler Kendra
Published: September 2023

Bridges and Fowler (2022) collected survey data regarding grocery shopping attitudes and behaviors prior to the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, and followed up by collecting similar data during the pandemic. This allowed for comparisons of grocery shopping habits before and during
COVID-19; in addition, survey respondents were asked how they anticipated they would readjust their grocery shopping practices following the pandemic.
Pengaruh Kualitas Pelayanan Terhadap Behavioral Intention (Niat Perilaku) Pengguna Mikrotrans Jaklingko di DKI
Authors: Mayrisha Defani Risti
Published: September 2023

Transportasi di Jakarta memegang peranan yang sangat strategis. Sebagai pusat pelayanan pemerintahan negara, kota Jakarta berperan sebagai pusat seluruh kegiatan masyarakat mulai dari bidang ekonomi, sosial, maupun budaya. Dinas perhubungan mencatat pada tahun 2002, perjalanan perhari mencapai 7,3 juta. Kemudian pada tahun 2010, perjalanan per hari menjadi 9,9 juta dan pada tahun 2020 meningkat sebanyak 13 juta perjalanan per harinya. Diperkirakan 12,7 juta atau setara 98% menggunakan kendaraan pribadi, sedangkan proporsi penggunaan angkutan umum hanya 2%.. merujuk pada fakta tersebut, perlu adanya pengembangan sistem transportasi umum.  Salah satu bentuk pengembangan sistem transportasi umum yaitu dengan meluncurkan Mikrotrans yang menggunakan sistem pembayaran terintegrasi yaitu Jaklingko. Sebagai penyelenggara pelayanan publik, Mikrotrans     Jaklingko harus sadar tentang pentingnya memberikan kualitas pelayanan yang terbaik bagi masyarakat. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh dan faktor dominan dari kualitas pelayanan pada behaviora intention pengguna mikrotrans Jaklingko di Jakarta. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode Kuantitatif dengan tipe eksplanatori. Hasil dari penelitian ini menunjukan terdapat hubungan yang signifikan antara variabel kualitas pelayanan terhadap behavioral intention pengguna mikrotrans Jaklingko di Jakarta. hasil penghitungan Koefisien Deteminan baik masing-masing variabel X (Tangible, Reliability, Responsiveness, Assurance, dan empathy maupun variabel X secara bersama-sama (Kualitas Pelayanan) mempunyai pengaruh sebesar 93,7% terhadap variabel Y. faktor dominan yang mempengaruhi variabel behavioral intention adalah ada pada variabel tangible, dimana variabel tersebut paling banyak memberikan pengaruh terhadap variabel behavioral intention yaitu sebanyak 52,41%.
A Hitchin connection on nonabelian theta functions for parabolic 𝐺-bundles
Authors: Biswas Indranil , Mukhopadhyay Swarnava , Wentworth Richard
Published: September 2023

For a simple, simply connected complex affine algebraic group 𝐺, we prove the existence of a flat projective connection on the bundle of nonabelian theta functions on the moduli spaces of semistable parabolic 𝐺-bundles for families of smooth projective curves with marked points.
Graphite crucible interaction with Fe–Si–B phase change material in pilot-scale experiments
Authors: Jiao Jianmeng , Jayakumari Sethulakshmy , Wallin Maria , Tangstad Merete
Published: September 2023

Fe–26Si–9B alloy is a promising high temperature phase change material (HTPCM), due to its high heat of fusion, small volumetric change, abundance, and low cost. Additionally, graphite has been identified as a promising candidate for use as a container material for this alloy. In this study, the feasibility of using graphite for Fe–26Si–9B HTPCM is investigated in a pilot-scale. Specifically, 4–5 kg Fe–26Si–9B master alloys were melted in graphite crucibles using an induction furnace, which underwent 2–3 thermal cycles in the temperature range of 1,100–1,375°C. The results showed that SiC and B4C precipitates were formed in the alloys. However, these carbides were found to be present only on the surface of the solidified alloys and not in the main body. Still, the chemical composition of the Fe–26Si–9B alloy remained relatively stable during the thermal cycles. It was also seen that the graphite crucible withstood the temperature cycles without cracking. Therefore, the use of graphite as a container for Fe–26Si–9B phase change material is a promising approach.
Animated satire and collective memory: reflecting on the American “history wars” with The Simpsons
Authors: Hellmann Olli
Published: September 2023

Driven by the knowledge that how societies remember their past matters in the present, the field of collective memory studies has paid significant attention to the media’s role in contributing to the production of socially shared representations of history. The genre of satire, however, has so far remained largely neglected. My paper addresses this gap and argues that, compared to other forms of media, satire not only adds to the production of memories, but it also offers distinct rhetorical techniques to encourage audiences to reflect on the construction and maintenance of collective memories. I develop the argument about satire’s memory-reflexive function through a case study of how The Simpsons – by deploying the fictional persona of Jebediah Springfield as a metaphor of the Founding Fathers – critically comments on America’s hyper-polarized “history wars” between conservatives and liberals. I argue that animated satire is a particularly powerful vehicle for reflection on collective memory, not only because it subverts audience expectations, but also because the unlimited storytelling potential of animation makes it possible to imitate the politics of collective remembering with a high degree of realism.
Multiplicity of solutions for a class of critical Schrödinger-Poisson systems on the Heisenberg group
Authors: Li Shiqi , Song Yueqiang
Published: September 2023

We deal with multiplicity of solutions to the following Schrödinger-Poisson-type system in this article:

Δ

H

u
−

μ

1

ϕ

1

u
=

∣
u
∣

2

u
+

F

u

(

ξ
,
u
,
v

)

,

in

Ω
,

−

Δ

H

v
+

μ

2

ϕ

2

v
=

∣
v
∣

2

v
+

F

v

(

ξ
,
u
,
v

)

,

in

Ω
,

−

Δ

H

ϕ

1

=

u

2

,

−

Δ

H

ϕ

2

=

v

2

,

in

Ω
,

ϕ

1

=

ϕ

2

=
u
=
v
=
0
,

on

∂
Ω
,

\left\{\begin{array}{ll}{\Delta }_{H}u-{\mu }_{1}{\phi }_{1}u={| u| }^{2}u+{F}_{u}\left(\xi ,u,v),\hspace{1.0em}& \hspace{0.1em}\text{in}\hspace{0.1em}\hspace{0.33em}\Omega ,\\ -{\Delta }_{H}v+{\mu }_{2}{\phi }_{2}v={| v| }^{2}v+{F}_{v}\left(\xi ,u,v),\hspace{1.0em}& \hspace{0.1em}\text{in}\hspace{0.1em}\hspace{0.33em}\Omega ,\\ -{\Delta }_{H}{\phi }_{1}={u}^{2},\hspace{1.0em}-{\Delta }_{H}{\phi }_{2}={v}^{2},\hspace{1.0em}& \hspace{0.1em}\text{in}\hspace{0.1em}\hspace{0.33em}\Omega ,\\ {\phi }_{1}={\phi }_{2}=u=v=0,\hspace{1.0em}& \hspace{0.1em}\text{on}\hspace{0.1em}\hspace{0.33em}\partial \Omega ,\end{array}\right.

where

Δ

H

{\Delta }_{H}

is the Kohn-Laplacian and

Ω

\Omega

is a smooth bounded region on the first Heisenberg group

H

1

{{\mathbb{H}}}^{1}

,

μ

1

{\mu }_{1}

, and

μ

2

{\mu }_{2}

are some real parameters, and

F
=
F

(

x
,
u
,
v

)

,

F

u

=

∂
F

∂
u

F=F\left(x,u,v),{F}_{u}=\frac{\partial F}{\partial u}

,

F

v

=

∂
F

∂
u

{F}_{v}=\frac{\partial F}{\partial u}

satisfying natural growth conditions. By the limit index theory and the concentration compactness principles, we prove that the aforementioned system has multiplicity of solutions for

μ

1

,

μ

2

<

∣
Ω
∣

−

1

2

S

{\mu }_{1},{\mu }_{2}\lt {| \Omega | }^{-\tfrac{1}{2}}S

, where

S

S

is the best Sobolev constant. The novelties of this article are the presence of critical nonlinear term, and the system is set on the Heisenberg group.
Construction of a ceRNA network to reveal a vascular invasion associated prognostic model in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Liu Yun , Yang Lu , Yu Mengsi , Huang Fen , Zeng Jiangzheng , Lu Yanda , Yang Changcheng
Published: September 2023

The aim of this study is to explore the prognostic value of vascular invasion (VI) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by searching for competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNA) network and constructing a new prognostic model for HCC. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between HCC and normal tissues were identified from GEO and TCGA. StarBase and miRanda prediction tools were applied to construct a circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network. The DEGs between HCC with and without VI were also identified. Then, the hub genes were screened to build a prognostic risk score model through the method of least absolute shrinkage and selection operator. The prognostic ability of the model was assessed using the Kaplan−Meier method and Cox regression analysis. In result, there were 221 up-regulated and 47 down-regulated differentially expressed circRNAs (DEcircRNAs) in HCC compared with normal tissue. A circRNA-related ceRNA network was established, containing 11 DEcircRNAs, 12 DEmiRNAs, and 161 DEmRNAs. Meanwhile, another DEG analysis revealed 625 up-regulated and 123 down-regulated DEGs between HCC with and without VI, and then a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was built based on 122 VI-related DEGs. From the intersection of DEGs within the PPI and ceRNA networks, we obtained seven hub genes to build a novel prognostic risk score model. HCC patients with high-risk scores had shorter survival time and presented more advanced T/N/M stages as well as VI occurrence. In conclusion a novel prognostic model based on seven VI-associated DEGs within a circRNA-related ceRNA network was constructed in this study, with great ability to predict the outcome of HCC patients.
Differences in perceived influencer authenticity: a comparison of Gen Z and Millennials’ definitions of influencer authenticity during the de-influencer movement
Authors: Singer Mara F. , Callendar Chaz L. , Ma Xiao , Tham Samuel M.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Authenticity is a trait that is considered by both Gen Z and Millennials as an integral part of the social media influencer persuasive episode. This research uses thematic analysis to deconstruct how both Gen Z and Millennials develop their perceptions of social media influencer authenticity.

Design/methodology

This study conducted four focus groups with a total of 15 members of Gen Z and 13 members of Millennials. Participants were screened to ensure they followed lifestyle social media influencers and have made purchases based on influencer recommendations. The online focus groups discussed how participants from each generation evaluate the authenticity of Social Media Influencers (SMIs) using a six-factor cumulative model (Nunes, Joseph C., Andrea Ordanini & Gaia Giambastiani. 2021. The concept of authenticity: What it means to consumers. Journal of Marketing 85(4). 1–20).

Findings

The research findings show that Gen Z considers SMIs to be highly educated friends with whom they can seek advice and opinions, while Millennials see social media influencer as a profession that needs to be done in an ethical and transparent manner.

Practical implications

These findings are useful in understanding the psychology between both Gen Z and Millennials so appropriate producer messaging can be used to reach them.

Originality/value

As the concept of authenticity has been defined differently by multiple entities, this research seeks to fill the current research gap in the literature analyzing generational definitions of perceived authenticity, specifically between the two largest online consumer cohorts, Gen Z and Millennials.
Effects of oral morphine on experimentally evoked itch and pain: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Okutani Hiroai , Lo Vecchio Silvia , Ammitzbøll Nadia , Drewes Asbjørn Mohr , Arendt-Nielsen Lars
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Pain and itch share similar neuronal networks; hence, it is difficult to explain why opioids can relieve pain but provoke itching. The present human volunteer study aimed to investigate the similarities and differences in responses to experimentally provoked pain and itching to explore the underlying fundamental mechanisms.

Methods

Twenty-four healthy volunteers were enrolled in this single-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group trial. Three volar forearms and two mandibular areas were marked, and participants randomly received morphine (20 mg) or identical placebo tablets. Heat, cold, and pressure pain thresholds, and vasomotor responses were assessed at baseline and after oral morphine administration. Itch provocations were induced by intradermal application of 1 % histamine or a topical cowhage (non-histaminergic itch) to a marked area of the skin. The participants were subsequently asked to rate their itching and pain intensities. The assessments were repeated for all marked areas.

Results

Morphine caused analgesia, as assessed by the significant modulation of cold and pressure pain thresholds (p<0.05). There were no significant differences in histaminergic or non-histaminergic itch or pain intensity between the morphine and placebo groups. Superficial blood perfusion (vasomotor response) following histamine provocation was significantly increased by morphine (p<0.05) in both areas. No correlation was found between the provoked itch intensity and analgesic efficacy in any area or group.

Conclusions

Oral administration of morphine caused analgesia without modulating itch intensities but increased neurogenic inflammation in response to histamine, suggesting that different opioid mechanisms in histaminergic and non-histaminergic neurons evoke neurogenic inflammation.
Cementite-type Y3Ru
Authors: Chamard Valentin Antoine , Matar Samir F. , Schumacher Lars , Paulsen Christian , Kösters Jutta , Block Theresa , Pöttgen Rainer
Published: September 2023

Single crystals of Y3Ru were obtained as a side product during phase analytical studies of yttrium-rich compounds in the system Y–Ru–Zn. The structure of Y3Ru was refined from single-crystal X-ray diffractometer data: Fe3C type, Pnma, a = 732.51(7), b = 925.61(8), c = 633.66(10) pm, wR = 0.0639, 811 F
2 values, 23 variables. The ruthenium atoms have coordination number 9 in form of a strongly distorted tricapped trigonal yttrium prism with Ru–Y distances ranging from 275–391 pm. The second substructure concerns empty Y6 octahedra (d(Y–Y) = 344–396 pm). Electronic structure calculations show a net charge transfer from yttrium to ruthenium and underpin the essentially covalent Y–Ru bonding. A phase-pure sample of Y3Ru was synthesized from the elements by arc-melting. Temperature-dependent magnetic susceptibility studies of this sample reveal Pauli paramagnetism (3.6(1) × 10−5 emu mol−1 at T = 300 K).
Experimental Investigation on the Post-liquefaction Behavior of Sands in Simple Shear Conditions
Authors: Mele Lucia , Lirer Stefania , Flora Alessandro
Published: September 2023

Experimental evidence shows that earthquake induced liquefaction can occur more than once in sandy soils. Moreover, despite an increase in soil density caused by the dissipation of the excess pore pressure induced by earthquakes, the liquefaction resistance of soils that have experienced liquefaction may be lower than that of virgin soils. This paper offers insight into this topic starting from the analysis of the undrained monotonic behavior of post-liquefied sands by means of tests performed with a simple shear cell equipped with flexible boundaries, which maintains a constant diameter to guarantee the “K0-condition.” The control system of cyclic, reconsolidation, and monotonic phases is described in detail. The experimental results show that neither the relative density, effective confining stress, cyclic stress ratio, nor the direction of shear strain play important roles in the monotonic behavior of post-liquefied soils. Moreover, the comparison between the monotonic response of virgin and post-liquefied soils (prepared by moist tamping technique) shows that it is not affected by the stress–strain history experienced by soils. It can be explained through a microstructural interpretation. According to which, the initial soil fabric generated with the moist tamping method and that formed during liquefaction remain almost unchanged because of the rotation of principal stress directions occurring during simple shear tests. A further confirmation is given by the results of tests performed on specimens prepared by air pluviation method.
Wear Resistance of Fe–Cr–C Hardfacing Deposited by Flux-Core-Double-Wire GTAW in Rubber Wheel Abrasion Test
Authors: Colaço Fernando Henrique Gruber , Turazi Almir , Stryhalski Joel , Chagas Gil Magno Portal , Galiotto Alexandre , Pintaude Giuseppe
Published: September 2023

The wear resistance of metals can be improved by using the hardfacing technique. Different processes can produce it with the desirable microstructures and mechanical properties. This study presents an original method, flux-core-double-wire of gas-shielded tungsten arc welding, in which wires of different compositions are used simultaneously to obtain different microstructures. The deposition was controlled through the following parameters: welding speed, deposition current, standoff distance, torch angle, and pulse frequency of wire feed. Four coatings were deposited on AISI 1020 steel substrate by combining the cored wires: Fe–Cr–C, Fe–Cr–C–Nb, Fe–Cr–C–Mo–Nb, and Fe–Cr–C–Mo–Ti. The combination of these wires resulted in a hypoeutectic microstructure with niobium and titanium carbides, with an average hardness of 650 HV0.3. The hypereutectic microstructures were formed by different niobium contents, with a microhardness range from 820 to 1,020 HV0.3. The performance of the hardfacing was evaluated in the rubber wheel abrasion test described by ASTM G65, Standard Test Method for Measuring Abrasion Using the Dry Sand/Rubber Wheel Apparatus (Superseded), procedure B. The results revealed that the carbide cracking distinguished the wear resistance, and the hardness was not enough to separate the wear behavior. Still, the volume fraction of carbides was a decisive microstructural parameter.
Inhibition of Dopamine Neurons Prevents Incentive Value Encoding of a Reward Cue: With Revelations from Deep Phenotyping
Authors: Iglesias Amanda G. , Chiu Alvin S. , Wong Jason , Campus Paolo , Li Fei , Liu Zitong (Nemo) , Bhatti Jasmine K. , Patel Shiv A. , Deisseroth Karl , Akil Huda , Burgess Christian R. , Flagel Shelly B.
Published: September 2023

The survival of an organism is dependent on its ability to respond to cues in the environment. Such cues can attain control over behavior as a function of the value ascribed to them. Some individuals have an inherent tendency to attribute reward-paired cues with incentive motivational value, or incentive salience. For these individuals, termed sign-trackers, a discrete cue that precedes reward delivery becomes attractive and desirable in its own right. Prior work suggests that the behavior of sign-trackers is dopamine-dependent, and cue-elicited dopamine in the NAc is believed to encode the incentive value of reward cues. Here we exploited the temporal resolution of optogenetics to determine whether selective inhibition of ventral tegmental area (VTA) dopamine neurons during cue presentation attenuates the propensity to sign-track. Using male tyrosine hydroxylase(TH)-CreLong Evans rats, it was found that, under baseline conditions, ∼84% ofTH-Crerats tend to sign-track. Laser-induced inhibition of VTA dopamine neurons during cue presentation prevented the development of sign-tracking behavior, without affecting goal-tracking behavior. When laser inhibition was terminated, these same rats developed a sign-tracking response. Video analysis using DeepLabCutTMrevealed that, relative to rats that received laser inhibition, rats in the control group spent more time near the location of the reward cue even when it was not present and were more likely to orient toward and approach the cue during its presentation. These findings demonstrate that cue-elicited dopamine release is critical for the attribution of incentive salience to reward cues.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTActivity of dopamine neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) during cue presentation is necessary for the development of a sign-tracking, but not a goal-tracking, conditioned response in a Pavlovian task. We capitalized on the temporal precision of optogenetics to pair cue presentation with inhibition of VTA dopamine neurons. A detailed behavioral analysis with DeepLabCutTMrevealed that cue-directed behaviors do not emerge without dopamine neuron activity in the VTA. Importantly, however, when optogenetic inhibition is lifted, cue-directed behaviors increase, and a sign-tracking response develops. These findings confirm the necessity of dopamine neuron activity in the VTA during cue presentation to encode the incentive value of reward cues.
Perception regarding European Green Deal challenges: From environment to competition and economic costs
Authors: Stoian (Bobalca) Iuliana Claudia , Clipa Raluca Irina , Ifrim Mihaela , Lungu Anca Elena
Published: September 2023

The objective of sustainable development cannot leave aside the relevance of short-term benefits, long-term negative externalities, and opportunity costs of actions implied by the complex relation economy-society-environment. The transition to a green economy cannot be based exclusively on win-win solutions for all involved parties but requires taking into consideration potential trade-offs between several objectives. The EU strategy for achieving sustainable development and energy security is materialised in the project European Green Deal, which sets courageous goals. Our paper groups the advantages and disadvantages of EGD policies, using exploratory and descriptive research. In this context, we analyse, based on interviews and a questionnaire, the perception of students who have taken Economics courses and are familiar with the topics of externalities and economic policies in relation to the challenges posed by the European Green Deal. While the initiators of this project expect the increase of energy efficiency of the EU states, the encouragement of cleaner industrial activities, the reduction of pollution and of other threats related to global warming, and assuring a more sustainable future for the European economy, the main concerns are related to social costs and loss of European companies’ competitiveness. Our findings identified some costs regarding international transactions’ financial aspects and competition, while the main benefits were related to environmental protection. Policy implications of this study refer to a more rigorous configuration of policy measures, through expanding the studies regarding the perception of the energy policy, for a wider and better public understanding and acceptance of its benefits and implications.
Different modelling approaches of tax revenue performance: The case of Baltic countries
Authors: Mirović Vera , Kalaš Branimir , Milenković Nada , Andrašić Jelena
Published: September 2023

Tax revenue performance represents one of the most essential issues to every government when creating and profiling fiscal policy according to the macroeconomic framework of each country. In particular, this issue comes to the fore in extraordinary circumstances and unstable trends when governments are exposed to greater costs of financing budget deficits and public debts. Tax revenue mobilization shows the government’s ability to collect sufficient revenue to finance government expenditures, as well as cover public needs. By using static and dynamic panel approaches, this research investigates the effect of tax revenue performance in Baltic countries (Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania) for the period 1995–2020. The main objective of this paper is to identify which determinants are crucial for improving tax revenue performance in the Baltic region. Namely, this research identifies how the main macroeconomic determinants affect the tax revenue performance in Baltic countries, which enables these economies to adjust to their favorable and unfavorable effects from the aspect of tax revenue mobilization. The empirical results show that gross domestic product per capita, industry value added, trade, and government expenditures have positive effects on tax revenue performance, while inflation, gross government debt, and exchange rate volatility negatively affect the tax revenue performance in these economies. Furthermore, the joining of Baltic countries to the European Union upgraded the tax revenue performance of this region in the short-run and long-run. Precisely, Baltic countries should focus on a higher level of economic growth, greater industry share and trade of GDP, as well as lower inflation rate, lesser exchange rate volatility, and smaller government gross debt.
Applying an integrated data-driven weighting system – CoCoSo approach for financial performance evaluation of Fortune 500 companies
Authors: Ersoy Nazli
Published: September 2023

Financial performance evaluation provides information about a firm’s liquidity position, profitability, capital structure and asset utilization. Financial performance evaluation is considered as a multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) problem, as it is a multidimensional concept that is realized by bringing together multiple indicators. This study is aimed to evaluate the financial performance of the Fortune 500 companies by using the integrated data-driven weighting system (IDDWS) – combined compromise solution (CoCoSo) approach. The criteria weights were calculated with the IDDWS and the companies were ranked by the CoCoSo method. In the last stage, a three-stage sensitivity analysis was performed to test the robustness of the model. In the first stage, 15 scenarios were defined by changing the criteria weights. In the second stage, the rankings of the CoCoSo method were compared with the other MCDM methods [range of value (ROV), proximity indexed value (PIV), complex proportional assessment (COPRAS), Biswas and Saha’s method]. In the third stage, a sensitivity analysis was conducted under five different scenarios based on different δ parameters. It was determined that the rankings obtained as a result of the sensitivity analysis show small deviations and except for a few companies, the ranking of most companies remained the same. The results show that the proposed model is suitable for measuring financial performance and Alphabet performs best. The suitability of the proposed model for measuring financial performance was tested for the first time. It is thought that the comparative use of many MCDM methods through a comprehensive sensitivity analysis will contribute to the literature.
The competitive advantage of enterprises from the customer perspective
Authors: Maráková Vanda , Wolak-Tuzimek Anna , Lament Marzanna , Dzúriková Lenka
Published: September 2023

The ability to achieve and maintain a competitive advantage in the long term is one of the most valuable abilities of a company in the modern economy. Companies strive to achieve a competitive advantage in order to be recognised by customers, which is expected to lead to increased revenues and profits. It is important to choose factors serving to achieve a competitive advantage. More desirable are factors that are difficult to copy by competitors and adapted to the opinions and needs of consumers. The aim of the article is to identify the sources of competitive advantage of enterprises in the opinion of consumers from Slovakia and Poland. The article analyses the literature on the subject and uses the methods of descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis (EFA). The analysis of the results is based on surveys conducted on a group of consumers from Slovakia and Poland using statistical software. A questionnaire assesses the importance of competitive factors utilised by companies. The obtained results confirm that quality is an important source of competitive advantage and country is a variable differentiating the selection of sources of competitive advantage. The research contributes to the ongoing scientific discussion, more specifically taking into account the consumer focus. To summarise, gaining a competitive advantage is a complex task influenced by a number of factors. To a large extent, they are related to the capacity for innovation, to the resources possessed, including human capital, and to the ability to respond to market needs and the use of marketing tools. The research contributes to the development of theories in the field of enterprise competitiveness, and its results can serve as recommendations for enterprise managers to identify the key sources of enterprises’ competitive advantage.
A Brief Note on the Standard Error of the Pearson Correlation
Authors: Gnambs Timo
Published: September 2023

The product-moment correlation is a central statistic in psychological research including meta-analysis. Unfortunately, it has a rather complex sampling distribution which leads to sample correlations that are biased indicators of the respective population correlations. Moreover, there seems to be some uncertainty on how to properly calculate the standard error of these correlations. Because no simple analytical solution exists, several approximations have been previously introduced. This note aims to briefly summarize 10 different ways to calculate the standard error of the Pearson correlation. Moreover, a simulation study on the accuracy of these estimators compared their relative percentage biases for different population correlations and sample sizes. The results showed that all estimators were largely unbiased for sample sizes of at least 40. For smaller samples, a simple approximation by Bonett (2008) led to the least biased results. Based on these results, it is recommended to use the expression (1−r2)/N−3 for the calculation of the standard error of the Pearson correlation.
Effect of prechilling and nano-selenium on seed germination of Dorema ammoniacum
Authors: Abedi Elham , Khavari-Nejad Ramazan Ali , Mosharraf Laleh , Saadatmand Sara , Asadi-Gharneh Hossein Ali
Published: September 2023

The aim of this research was to investigate the effectiveness of nano-selenium (nano-Se) on germination properties of vasha (Dorema ammoniacum), an endangered medicinal plant in Iran. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomised two-factor, experiment with five concentrations
(0, 5, 10, 20, and 40 mg L –1) of nano-Se and seed prechilling treatment (4°C). All the germination characteristics, including percentage germination, mean germination and vigour indices were improved by nano-Se treatments (p <; 0.05). Among the treatments, the
combination of prechilling and 20 mg L –1 nano-Se conditioning was the best treatment, both in improving germination and the growth characteristics of seedlings. It can be concluded that pretreatment of seeds with nano-Se and prechilling can be used for promoting germination of D.
ammoniacum seeds.
Experimental investigation of the solid phase equilibria at 300 K in the SnBi2Te4-PbBi2Te4-Bi2Te3 system
Authors: Aghazade A.I. , Orujlu E.N. , Salimov Z.E. , Mammadov A.N. , Babanly M.B.
Published: September 2023

The phase equilibria of the SnBi2Te4-PbBi2Te4-Bi2Te3 system were experimentally studied using differential thermal analysis (DTA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques. According to the experimental results, the isothermal section of the system at 300 K were constructed and 4 single-phase and 3 two-phase regions were identified. It was shown that along with previously confirmed SnBi2Te4–PbBi2Te4 and SnBi4Te7–PbBi4Te7 sections, SnBi6Te10–PbBi6Te10 section forms continuous series of solid solutions with a tetradymite-type layered structure. Lattice parameters of solid solutions were determined by full-profile Rietveld refinements and results show that both a and c parameters increase linearly with the Pb concentration according to Vegard's law. This study can help elucidate the phase equilibria of the SnTe-PbTe-Bi2Te3 pseudo-ternary system which provides important information for the design of new tetradymite-type layered phases with topological insulator and thermoelectric properties.
Los valores en la práctica docente y las preguntas por la calidad y la equidad en la institución escolar
Authors: Fierro Evans Cecilia
Published: September 2023

El presente trabajo reporta los principales resultados de una investigación etnográfica interesada en identificar los valores que los docentes ofrecen a través de su actuación cotidiana, así como analizar sus implicaciones para el desarrollo de la moralidad de sus alumnos. A partir de observaciones en aula y otros espacios escolares, y con base en las perspectivas socio-antropológica y psico-pedagógica sobre los valores, se generan tres "rutas" de acercamiento al objeto de estudio: 1) Comportamiento normativo docente; integra las normas concretas, abstractas y la consistencia en su aplicación. 2)Comportamiento afectivo, refiere a los vehículos utilizados para aludir a las normas y las expresiones afectivas dirigidas al alumno. 3) Conducción de los procesos de enseñanza. Analiza las secuencias de reflexión de contenidos académicos y valorales generadas por los docentes. La investigación releva algunos mecanismos y procesos mediante los cuales se configura cotidianamente la vivencia referida al respeto a la dignidad de los alumnos así como a recibir un trato equitativo en la escuela. En consonancia con los hallazgos de estudios interpretativos sobre acceso y retención en educación básica, se afirma que no solamente la trayectoria escolar está aquí en juego, sino asuntos fundamentales de cara al desarrollo moral de los alumnos.Descriptores: práctica docente - valores - educación moral - institución escolar - calidad educativa The values in teaching practice and the questions for quality and equity in schools This report refers to the main results found in an ethnographic research, which deals with the identification of the values that teachers offer to the students through their daily performance, and the analysis of the implications that this matter has in the moral development of their students. Through the observations in classrooms and other school spaces, as well as the analysis based on the socio-anthoropological and psico-pedagogical theoretical approaches, three "routes" were developed to focus the teaching practices of professors in the basic education level: 1) The normative behaviour, which integrates the concrete norms, the abstract norms and the consistence in their application. 2) The affective behaviour, which refers to the "vehicles", this is the different ways in which the teachers transmit the norms, and the affective expressions that are directed to the students. 3) The conduction of the learning processes. This route analyses the "reflection sequences", through academic and moral contents, that professors offer to their students. This research makes evident some mechanisms through which the "living processes" of respect and equity are established in the relationship between teachers and students.Keywords: teaching practice - values - moral education - school - quality of education
Dimensiones y escenarios del buen aprendizaje para todos
Authors: Domingo Segovia Jesús
Published: September 2023

Educar y cambiar desde una perspectiva de transformación social significa retomar críticamente las funciones de la escuela y replantearse qué es un buen aprendizaje y qué hacen los centros y los docentes para promoverlo. Este artículo, pues, repasa las dimensiones básicas que se ponen en juego para buscar la calidad y la equidad. Y, de este modo, establece unos marcos desde los que comprender los elementos que componen la gramática básica de un buen aprendizaje, de una buena enseñanza y de una buena escuela. Concluye concertando un coherente modelo de integración de estos tres subsistemas.Descriptores: aprendizaje - curriculum - escenarios de enseñanza-aprendizaje - calidad. Dimensions and scenarios of good learning for allTo educate and to change from a perspective of social transformation means to recapture the functions of the school critically and to reconsider what a good learning is and what they make the school and the educational ones to promote it. This article because, it reviews the basic dimensions that put at stake to look for the quality and the justness. And, this way, it establishes some marks from those that to understand the elements that compose the basic grammar of a powerful learning, powerful teaching and powerful schools. It concludes concerting a coherent model of integration of these three subsystems.Keywords: learning - curriculum - teaching-learning scenarios - quality
Métodos estadísticos de estimación de los efectos de la escuela y su aplicación al estudio de las escuelas eficaces
Authors: Fernández Aguerre Tabaré
Published: September 2023

El propósito del artículo es presentar problemas de análisis que surgen en el estudio de las escuelas eficaces en el plano de la conceptualización, en el plano de la elección de la matriz de datos y en el plano de la formulación de los modelos estadísticos para su identificación. Entre estos últimos, se discuten las ventajas y limitaciones de estimar los efectos mediante modelos de regresión lineal (mínimos cuadrados ordinarios o ponderados) y mediante modelos multinivel. Si bien el énfasis se pone en este último plano, se busca mostrar cómo cada uno de los planos se articula con el siguiente estableciendo restricciones conceptuales y metodológicas al análisis estadístico. Todos los aspectos constituyen puntos de discusión importante en pos del mejoramiento de la investigación en el campo de la eficacia escolar en la región latinoamericana.Descriptores: eficacia escolar - efectos escolares- metodología de investigación - modelos  multinivel Statistical methods for estimating the effects of the school and its application to the study of effective schoolsThe purpose of this article is to present analysis problems arising in the study of effective schools in terms of conceptualization, in terms of the choice of the data matrix and in the plane of the formulation of statistical models for identification . Among the latter, the advantages and limitations of using models to estimate the effects linear regression (ordinary least squares or weighted) and using multilevel models are discussed. While the emphasis is on that plane, it seeks to show how each of the planes articulates with the following conceptual and methodological establishing statistical analysis restrictions. All aspects are important discussion points towards the improvement of research in the field of school effectiveness in Latin America.Keywords: school effectiveness - escolares- effects research methodology - multilevel models
Innovación, cultura y poder en las instituciones educativas
Authors: García Gómez Rodrigo Juan
Published: September 2023

La investigación que se presenta en este artículo pretende poner de manifiesto la relevancia de las interacciones entre los distintos componentes sistémicos de la realidad social y escolar, a la hora de entender y promover los procesos de innovación. Este propósito se ha materializado en el estudio del denominado "mundo de la vida" de varios centros educativos de primaria y secundaria. Se ha prestado especial atención a la influencia o "colonización" que ejercen los subsistemas sociales sobre ese "mundo de la vida" propio de cada institución. Por otra parte, algunas evidencias también ilustran la capacidad de las personas y los grupos para actuar de forma independiente respecto de esa presión social. Este estudio confirma que la innovación educativa es una construcción poliédrica y compleja, y a la vez, que es contextualmente posible. Debe estar guiada por un objetivo profundamente ético: la mejora de las prácticas de enseñanza y de la calidad de los aprendizajes.Descriptores: innovación educativa - mejora escolar - reforma del sistema educativo - organización escolarInnovation, culture and power in schoolsThe aim of this research is to show up the relevance of interactions among different systemic components of the social and school life, in order to understand and promote innovation processes. This target has been taken to account through the study of the so-called "world of life" within several primary and secondary schools. Special attention has been paid to the influence or "colonization" that the social subsystems exert on that internal "world of life" of the institutions. On the other hand, some evidence also show the capacity of people and groups to act independently from this social pressure. This study confirms that educational innovation is a polyhedral and complex construction, and it is simultaneously, contextually possible. It must be leaded by a deeply ethical goal; an improvement of the educational practices and a quality of learning.Keywords: educational innovation - school improvement - educational reform - school organization