bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thich Nhat Hanh's Interpretation of the Dharma as a Viable Spirituality in a Secular Age
Authors: Kato Julius-Kei
Published: October 2024

abstract: This study will propose that Thich Nhat Hanh's (TNH) teaching possesses a powerful capability to propose a viable wisdom path/spirituality to people in today's secularized world, particularly, those who self-identify as SBNR (Spiritual but not Religious), "Dones" (given up on religion), or "Nones" (no religious affiliation). This capability stems principally from TNH's stated commitment to renew and refresh Buddhism by making it simple and practical in daily life while disavowing inordinate attachment to any doctrine, ideology, or teaching, an attitude that TNH considered idolatrous. TNH's way seems to be compatible with the widespread contemporary Western disillusionment with institutional religion that is ironically accompanied by a renewed quest for a meaningful spirituality.
The Bodhisattva Peace Activist
Authors: Stout Huili Shen
Published: October 2024

abstract: This paper considers the challenge of transcending partisan and ideological attachments in the work of peace activism through the Buddhist hermeneutic of nonduality. The Diamond Sutra as well as the witness and teaching of Thích Nhất Hạnh form the foundation of the paper's argument. It first recalls Nhất Hạnh's contribution to peace activism, especially his radical stance of neutrality and peace at any cost, which caused him to be marginalized by the American peace movement during the Vietnam War. It then presents the teaching of the Diamond Sutra , where the Buddha challenges the bodhisattva to practice acts of generosity without being attached to the signs of self, person, living being, and life span. Nhất Hạnh's teaching of interbeing is invoked to help explain the dialectical logic of the Diamond Sutra . Finally, the same bodhisattva ideal is shown to be found in the teaching and example of Jesus in the New Testament. The paper concludes with the belief that both Christianity and Buddhism demand from their followers a radical transformation of consciousness that transcends egoism and dualism.
Equitable Access to Nature and Transformational Politics
Authors: Thasiah Victor
Published: October 2024

abstract: Vietnamese Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh's (1926–2022) account of the nearly two years he spent as a fugitive in the Dai Lao Forest among the Indigenous Highlanders of Vietnam in his memoir Fragrant Palm Leaves demonstrates the transformational political potential associated with such access to nature. Based on this and recent work like Tiya Miles's 2023 book Wild Girls: How the Outdoors Shaped the Women Who Challenged a Nation , I propose that contemporary environmental activism toward more equitable access to nature in the United States should better highlight this transformational political potential—understood as dismantling systemic ecological and social injustice—in addition to offering public and mental health benefits.
Grounding Ethics Nondualistically: Fruit from a Synthetic Reading of John Wesley and Masao Abe
Authors: Perkins Tasi
Published: October 2024

abstract: "[T]rue Christianity cannot exist without both the inward experience and outward practice of justice, mercy, and truth," writes John Wesley, the eighteenth-century founder of Methodism. For him, belief and behavior, motivation and praxis, collapse dialectically into one. The Kyoto-formed dialogist Masao Abe identifies one strength and one weakness each in the poles of Western and Zen thought. For him, the West understands the importance of ethical behavior but cannot understand the oneness of all things. Conversely, Zen Buddhism is deficient in its conception of ethics but more actualized in understanding the interdependence of all things ( pratītyasamutpāda ). While his Western interlocutors include a disproportionate number of heirs to the Wesleyan tradition, Abe himself never deals directly with Wesley. This is presumably because of the latter's European Modernist philosophical and theological commitments. Still, putting these diverse worldviews in creative dialogue with each other might do more to resolve Abe's twofold tension than does his conversation with more "likely" interlocutors. If Abe is correct that "the practical problem par excellence" in Buddhism is integrating the "oneness of practice and enlightenment and that the West tends to bifurcate existence to its own detriment," Wesley can be invited into the conversation to stand in the gap between these challenges. For the Methodist patriarch, understanding and ethics are two sides of one coin in his emphases on "practical divinity" and "social holiness."
From analogies to negativity: Pragmatic functions and stance expression of subjective counterfactual Ruguo sentence
Authors: Song Zengwen , Wan Xiaoli
Published: October 2024

摘要: "如果"句是指由假设关联词"如果"引导的条件复句。违实"如果"句包括主观违实和客观违实两类。主观违实的判定有赖于语义识别和逻辑推导。根据前后分句(分别用 A、B 表示)的客观真假情况可将主观违实"如果"句分为 4 类，分别是"A 真，B 假""A 真，B 真假不定""A 真假不定，B 真""A 真假不定，B 假"。其语用推导模式可概括为蕴涵推导式和隐涵推导式两类。主观违实"如果"句具有显性类比和隐性否定的立场表达功能。 ABSTRACT: The "Ruguo (如果)" sentence refers to a conditional complex sentence connected by the hypothetical association word "Ruguo (如果)". The counterfactual "Ruguo(如果)" sentence includes subjective and objective counterfactual sentence. The judgment of subjective counterfactuality depends on semantic recognition and logical derivation. According to the objective truth and falsehood of the previous and last clause, we can divide the subjective counterfactual "Ruguo (如果)" sentence into 4 categories: A true B false, A true B true or false, A true or false B true, A true or false B false. The pragmatic deriving mode can be summarized as containing both derivation and implicit derivation. The subjective counterfactual "Ruguo(如果)" sentence has the function of expressing stance, including explicit analogies and implicit negation.
Two-photon Absorption Study With Coupled Mode Formalism
Authors: Gupta Naman , Das Sudarshan , Krishnamurthy Srini , Krishnan Sivarama , Rituraj .
Published: October 2024

Optical limiting devices employ two photon absorption in materials for sensor and eye protection. To be able to reduce the intensity threshold for protection, cavity structures can be considered. However, design of structures by solving full solution to nonlinear Maxwell equations in the cavity is tedious and obscures the relationships between controllable parameters and the limiter performance. In this article, we extend the coupled mode formalism to include two photon absorption and derive simpler equations connecting these design parameters and the optical performance. The analytical solution enables the identification of material parameters and threshold intensity required to meet the preferred limiter performance. We demonstrate that our solution is highly accurate by comparing it with a full solution to Maxwell Equations in a HgCdTe-based cavity, designed to reject 10.6 μm wavelength light. Equally importantly, we note that the design acts as a near-perfect reflector when the incident intensity is larger than a certain low threshold intensity and thus does not reach the limiter damage threshold.
Rabies control costs at the provincial level: Who should pay more, the community or the government?
Authors: Truong Bao Dinh , Thao Trang Phuong , Dung Nguyen Thi Thuy , Duong Mai Tieu , Mi Bui Thi Tra , Ly Son Hong , Trang Nguyen Thi Phuong , Phu Doan Hoang , Dung Dinh Thi Thuy , Oanh Vo Thi Kieu , Padungtod Pawin
Published: October 2024

Background and Aim: Rabies is a zoonotic disease that persists endemic in numerous countries worldwide. In Vietnam, the main sources of rabies are dogs and cats, and they caused 76 human deaths annually by 2017–2021. Long An province has recently experienced an increasing burden of rabies, with seven fatal cases reported in the past 5 years. Various rabies control measures have been implemented in this province, including mass vaccination of the animal population, post-vaccination monitoring, diagnostic testing of suspected rabid dogs, dog bite investigation, animal management, pre-exposure treatment, post-exposure treatment (PET), and awareness programs. This study aimed to estimate the cost of rabies control measures for animals and humans in Long An province in 2022.

Materials and Methods: An economic model was developed to estimate the costs of rabies control under two scenarios, with and without external financial support from the private sector. Inputs for the model included data from published literature, publicly available reports on rabies, government data, expert opinions, and a pilot study conducted in Vietnam.

Results: The total annual costs of rabies control, with or without external support, were estimated to be VND 62.62 and 62.77 billion (equivalent to USD 2.67 and 2.68 million), respectively. The highest proportion of costs was related to PET in humans (84.50% and 84.30%), followed by the cost of mass vaccination paid by animal owners (14.28% and 13.90%). Most of the expenses were paid by the private sector (98.87% and 98.98%) rather than the public sector (1.14% and 1.20%).

Conclusion: This study described a transparent and reproducible method for estimating the economic costs of rabies control at the provincial level. The economic model developed showed that control of rabies by mass vaccination is more cost-effective than using PET to prevent human death. The model can be applied to future economic analyses of rabies control in other provinces of Vietnam and other rabies-endemic countries.

Keywords: animals, control measures, deterministic economic model, humans, rabies.
Between obligations and leisure: an examination of non-work activities among the generation 55+ in Poland and Czechia
Authors: Swadźba Urszula , Horáková Nicole , Trembaczowski Łukasz
Published: October 2024

This article seeks to evaluate the non-work activities of the generation 55+ in Poland and the Czech Republic. The theoretical framework relies on Ronald Inglehart's theory of values, which is also applied in the research methodology. Following Inglehart's theory, the activities of the generation 55+ can be categorised into two groups. The first group aligns with materialist duty-related values, encompassing responsibilities such as caring for grandchildren, tending to elderly and disabled family members, and participating in religious observances. The second group aligns with postmaterialist values, emphasising personal development, self-expression, and quality of life. These activities encompass participation in classes offered by the University of the Third Age, volunteering, engaging in sports, and tourism. The research findings indicate a greater involvement of Poles in duty-related activities, particularly among women. This suggests a prevalence of materialist values in Poland. Conversely, Czechs, especially Czech women, exhibit more active involvement in leisure activities, pointing to the predominance of postmaterialist values. The conclusions present an integrated model of non-work activities for the generation 55+ that takes into account both materialist and post-materialist values.
Circular economy efficiency in the context of waste management in the selected Central and Eastern European countries – evidence from DEA and fractional regression analysis
Authors: Potkány Marek , Neykov Nikolay , Streimikis Justas , Lesníková Petra
Published: October 2024

Sustainability and optimizing waste management efficiency through circular economy principles have become significant trends in recent research. This study aims to compare the circular economy efficiency within the waste management framework in selected Central and East European countries. To achieve this, the research employs Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and Fractional Regression Analysis, specifically using the Slack-Based Measurement model. This model measures efficiency by referencing the inefficient Decision-Making Units (DMUs) rather than the origin of the coordinate system. Key variables such as GDP per capita, GDP growth rate, and circular economy indicators were selected and analyzed using Eurostat data from 2010 to 2022. The findings reveal varying potentials for improving the efficiency of hazardous and non-hazardous waste management in the countries investigated. Additionally, differences in the mutual influence of selected variable indicators on waste efficiency are identified using Fractional Regression Analysis. These insights emphasize the pivotal role of waste management in advancing circular economy policies.
Take a ride on the green side: E-vehicle purchase intentions in the emerging economy context
Authors: Oláh Judit , Khan Khurram Ajaz , Akhtar Mohammed Anam , Chuluunbaatar Erdenebayar
Published: October 2024

The article aims to understand individuals' E-vehicle purchase intentions. It explores the factors of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and Diffusion of innovation considering the individual's environmental concern and the moderating impact of income on the intention to purchase. Data was collected through the survey method and a total of 322 samples were analyzed using structure equation modelling to determine the significance of the factors affecting the intention to purchase an E-vehicle and to ascertain the sensitivity of such factors. The findings of the analysis were mixed; however, compatibility was found to be a significant factor influencing E-vehicle purchase intentions. The study's findings can assist in understanding the EV purchase intentions of Indians and those living in neighboring developing nations. This can be useful for policymakers, service providers, manufacturers, and researchers. The present study's originality lies in its proposed framework as very little research has covered UTAUT and DOI variables in the context of a developing nation to examine EV purchase intention.
The effect of digital governance to stimulate the antifragile capabilities of public sector organizations
Authors: Bartuseviciene Ilona , Butkus Mindaugas
Published: October 2024

This paper investigates whether and in what way digital governance can contribute to the development of antifragility in public sector organizations. In this study, antifragility is realized as a set of core capabilities that equips organizations with the knowledge and capacity to deal with and capitalize on uncertainty. A survey was conducted through structured interviews with the top managers of 400 organizations to investigate this phenomenon. The subsequent study then employed nonparametric structural equation modeling, indicating the following goodness-of-fit parameters: CMIN/DF – 2.476, TLI – 0.925, CFI – 0.933, and RMSEA – 0.043. The results of this study are significant and reveal that the facilitation of digital governance can be considered an enabler of antifragility development within organizations operating in the public sector. However, the overall effect is not so straightforward. The study's findings lead to a significant outcome, indicating that cybersecurity works as a mediator in the relationship between intangible digital governance components that covary with each other, i.e., leadership, digital services, and capacity building, as well as digital infrastructure and organizational antifragility. These findings highlight the need to align digital governance with strategy and skill development. Furthermore, they emphasize the potential of technological innovation to enhance an organization’s level of antifragile capability when strategically invested.
The impacts of attitude, knowledge, and belief on carbon neutrality: Evidence from Hong Kong
Authors: Fung Ka Chun , Cheung Kwok Yip , Lai Chung Yee , Pang Li Li Lily
Published: October 2024

This study employs the Theory of Planned Behavior and the Theory of Reasoned Action to investigate the relationships among belief, attitude, knowledge, and intention towards carbon neutrality. Structural equation modeling is used to analyze data from a sample of 392 respondents. The results indicate that knowledge and belief positively influence the intention to adopt carbon neutrality, which is consistent with previous research. However, contrary to expectations, the study does not find significant correlations between knowledge and attitude or between attitude and behavioral intention. Belief is found to play an important mediating role in the relationships between knowledge and intention, as well as between attitude and intention. The research highlights the importance of contextual variables in understanding the relationship between knowledge, belief, and attitude towards carbon neutrality. The findings have significant implications for policymakers and marketers who seek to promote carbon neutrality and emphasize the need to develop and promote belief systems that prioritize carbon neutrality. Overall, the study provides valuable insights into the factors which affect the intention to adopt carbon neutrality.
Social mix in Zagreb’s large housing estates
Authors: Klasić Anamaria , Svirčić Gotovac Anđelina
Published: October 2024

In Western and Northern Europe, post-war large housing estates (LHEs) stand out as areas of segregated and minority-populated housing, and have faced numerous attempts of reconstruction with the idea of social mixing. LHEs in Central and Eastern Europe had different developmental pathways. The heterogeneous structure of these estates has persisted until today, but due to the systematic neglect and aging, the estates are threatened by physical and social deterioration. The analysis is based on a survey conducted in Croatia in 2022 on two types of housing estates (socialist and post-socialist; N (Zagreb = 657). The results confirm that the social composition in both types of estates is mixed, with a predominance of middle-class residents and without pronounced social differences. The residential satisfaction is high, so the majority of residents are stayers. Nevertheless, certain regeneration policies should be adopted because the population of the socialist LHEs is aging, which could jeopardize the present heterogeneity and make maintenance of multifamily buildings more challenging, thus contributing to further deterioration of the estates.
The impact of competitive strategy on enterprise performance: An empirical study of small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises
Authors: Feng Qi , Kot Sebastian , Chaveesuk Singha , Chaiyasoonthorn Wornchanok
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the relationships between competitive strategy, innovation, corporate governance structure, capital structure, human capital, and enterprise performance in small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises (SMEs). The research is based on the Competition Theory. The survey research design includes 506 valid responses from SMEs in China. Structural equation modelling was employed to analyze the responses. It revealed that competitive strategy positively impacts performance, with innovation and human capital as key mediators. Corporate governance and capital structure also mediate these relationships, supporting various strategic management theories. Additionally, the environment moderates the impact of competitive strategy on performance, highlighting the need for adaptability in dynamic markets. These findings offer theoretical substantiations and practical insights for enhancing SME performance through strategic planning. Future research should employ longitudinal approaches and integrate objective data to explore these dynamics further.
Economic growth and national security: Patterns of European countries’ resistance to global turbulences
Authors: Lyeonov Sergey , Vysochyna Alina , Śmiech Liliana , Rabe Marcin
Published: October 2024

Macroeconomic stability and national security are core measurement indicators of country performance. Historical, economic, social and other prerequisites contribute to the formation of country-specific patterns of these performance indicators resistance to global turbulences such as COVID-19 pandemic. Pandemic proved that considering of public health issues in promoting economic prosperity, social welfare and environmental security is crucially important. The aim of the research is to identify country-specific (for 34 European countries) patterns of socio-economic (internal) and public health (external) drivers and inhibitors of ensuring economic growth, macroeconomic stability and national security resistance to global turbulences similar to COVID-19 pandemic. Realization of the research objectives involves the implementation of the following stages: 1) identification of the general and country-specific the most influential internal impetus indicators fostering volatility socio-economic development and national security based on multivariate analysis; 2) formation of general and country-specific matrix of influential determinants of ensuring macroeconomic stability and national security resistance to global turbulences similar to COVID-19 pandemic; 3) formalization general and country-specific external drivers and inhibitors of macroeconomic stability and national security volatility within public health determinants. The study is carried out on a sample of 34 European countries for 2000-2022.
Don't you know that you're toxic? Regression model of a toxic workplace environment identification
Authors: Michulek Jakub , Majerova Jana , Gajanova Lubica , Nadanyiova Margareta , Hajdu Zita
Published: October 2024

The aim of this paper is to identify key relevant characteristics of pathological workplaces and their importance via logistic regression and the creation of the model that would be based on this method. Online questionnaire survey was used for collecting the data. It has been realized in 2023 on the sample of 489 respondents. These respondents were employees of companies that operated in the Slovak Republic. The model itself has been developed using logistic regression. The model has identified relevant characteristics of the pathological workplace: 1) sectoral type of the company; 2) type of corporate culture; 3) type of leadership. Toxic workplaces are present mostly in companies from accommodation and catering services where personal culture and authoritative leadership take place. With the same profile of corporate culture and leadership, also sectors of education, healthcare, and social assistance have been detected as more likely to be endangered by toxicity. However, little is known about the characteristics of pathological workplaces, which could help to prevent unhealthy relationships between managers and employees and lead the company to more effective production and operation on the market. The research abstracts from the generational specifics of subjects who are involved in the pathological working schemes.
Impact of the environmental ESG pillar on firm sustainability: Empirical research in the V4 countries
Authors: Kubalek Jan , Erben Michal , Kudej Michal
Published: October 2024

The research aimed to define the impact of the environmental pillar of ESG principles on the sustainability of firms in the V4 region and quantify the impact of certain factors on the perception of firms’ sustainability. To this end, a questionnaire survey on the attitudes of managers and business owners was conducted in February 2024 in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland and Hungary. Data were collected using the Computer Assisted Web Interviewing (CAWI) research method. The distribution of respondents by country was as follows: there were 338 respondents from the Czech Republic, 349 from Poland, 312 from Slovakia and 321 from Hungary. Correlation analysis and linear regression analysis were used to test the scientific hypotheses. The results suggest that firms that focus on the environmental education of employees, use green practices, provide truthful information about environmental impacts, and spend adequate costs on environmental protection are more likely to achieve sustainable growth. On the other hand, there appears to be no affect on corporate sustainability from policies pertaining to managing the company in accordance with specific regulations, minimising the environmental impacts of business activities, intensively addressing the energy efficiency of company buildings, and using renewable energy sources. In conclusion, firms in the V4 countries focus on that aspects of Pillar E that affect sustainable growth but do not significantly increase costs or increase the overall complexity of processes.
Impact of university-industry R&D collaboration on innovation transfer and startup performance
Authors: Kuzior Aleksandra , Samoilikova Anastasiia , Valúch Martin , Bácsné Bába Éva
Published: October 2024

Effective partnership of education and business is a catalyst for innovation transfer, startup ecosystem development and sustainable economic growth. The research aims to identify the impact of university-industry R&D collaboration on startups performance, taking into account existing knots and gap intervals. The study sample was formed for 100 world countries, represented in the Global Startup Ecosystem Index rating. The formed base includes data of the University-industry R&D collaboration indicator within the Global Innovation Index 2023 by WIPO and data of the Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2023 by StartupBlink. In the first stage, the procedures for checking the significance of investigated indicators were applied, including descriptive statistics, checking the distribution law and regression analysis. The second stage covers the construction of median-spline plots, scatter plots and spline modelling using the STATA 18 program complex. The range of values of the University-industry R&D collaboration index was determined on the condition of reaching which the maximum statistically significant value of the indicator of startup productivity is predicted. The obtained results confirm the importance of an entrepreneurial university concept for innovation transfer and their commercialization and provide a view of the targeted value of the University-industry R&D collaboration on average at the world level.
Creation of Music-Induced Analgesia in Chronic Pain Patients through Endogenous Opioid Production: A Narrative Review
Authors: Puri Nivriti
Published: October 2024

Chronic pain affects over 30% of the global population, and reliance on external drugs for treatment has led to major issues, including the present opioid epidemic. A healthier option is necessary, which is why music therapy’s analgesic effects have been extensively studied within the last 20 years. Not only is music relatively harmless but given that chronic pain patients require repeated treatment, musical intervention is far more accessible and economical. While the mechanisms underlying music-induced analgesia are relatively unclear, the production of endogenous opioids while listening to music through both the descending pain modulatory circuit and the limbic system, is postulated to play this role. This review describes the brain regions and pathways by which music may trigger the release of endogenous opioids such as enkephalins, endorphins, and dynorphins. More importantly, it discusses the cellular mechanisms through which these neuropeptides are thought to mediate pleasure-induced analgesia in chronic pain patients.
Multi-omics approaches for abiotic stress tolerance in rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Papanaboyina Archana  , Pushpam Ramamoorthy  , Manonmani Swaminathan  , Raveendran Muthurajan  , Senthil Alagarsamy  , Pravin Kumar Kathiresan
Published: October 2024

Rice, one of the world's staple crops, faces significant challenges due to abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity and extreme temperatures, which threaten global food security. Traditional breeding methods have limitations in developing stress-tolerant rice varieties within a short time frame. Thus, there is a growing interest in employing multi-omics approaches, integrating genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics and epigenomics, to unravel the complex molecular mechanisms underlying abiotic stress tolerance in rice. In contrast to a single-omics method, this combination of multi-dimensional approaches provides an extensive understanding of cellular dynamics under abiotic stress conditions. This review discusses recent advances in multi-omics technologies and their applications in dissecting the molecular responses of rice to abiotic stresses. It highlights the integration of multi-omics data to identify critical genes, pathways and regulatory networks involved in stress responses and tolerance mechanisms.Furthermore, it explores the potential of multi-omics-assisted breeding strategies for developing stress-tolerant rice varieties with improved agronomic traits. The challenges and future perspectives in utilizing multi-omics approaches to enhance rice's abiotic stress tolerance are also discussed. Overall, multi-omics approaches offer a comprehensive platform to understand the molecular basis of stress tolerance in rice and accelerate the development of resilient varieties to ensure global food security.
Sapindaceae fruits: A comprehensive overview on phytochemicals, nutraceuticals and health benefits application
Authors: Sangeeth Shyam Sundar S S  , C. Rajamanickam  , S. Saraswathy  , K. Venkatesan  , R. Balakumbahan  , A. Vijayasamundeeswari  , C. Sankar
Published: October 2024

The article delves into the intricate realm of the Sapindaceae family, shedding light on the many phytomedicinal advantages that these fruits offer. This family boasts an array of economically significant fruits, including Litchi (Litchi chinensis), Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum), Longan (Dimocarpus longan), Guarana (Paullinia cupana), Ackee (Blighia sapida) and Soapberry (Sapindus saponaria), each of which has its own set of medicinal characteristics. The Sapindaceae family, also known as the soapberry family, comprises numerous tropical and subtropical plant species known for their phytochemical properties and potential health benefits. Despite the well-known medicinal properties of Sapindaceae fruits, there is a lack of a comprehensive compilation that combines knowledge about their important components, nutritional value, traditional value and medicinal properties. This review aims to address this gap by providing assessments of the medicinal potential of Sapindaceae fruits and their prospects as food products. The study focuses on the chemicals, nutrients and medicinal properties of Sapindaceae fruits, excluding studies lacking therapeutic relevance. Findings show that Sapindaceae fruits contain bioactive compounds such as saponins, flavonoids and phenolic acids, which are antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-viral, anti-obesity and anti-diabetic. In addition, these fruits are rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber, which supports their use as functional foods and vitamins. The review suggests future research on sustainable uptake and development of nutrients from Sapindaceae, which could increase their use in healthcare and potentially lead to the development of cost-effective pharmaceutical products for consumers and the agricultural sector.
German recordings from a forgotten Gaeltacht
Authors: Drisceoil Proinsias Ó
Published: October 2024

In the first half of the twentieth century, Irish continued to be spoken as a community language in Ballybacon, south-west Tipperary, Ireland. A commission, Coimisiún na Gaeltachta, was appointed in 1925 by the three-year-old Free State government to designate Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking area) boundaries and to recommend social, economic and educational improvements therein. Ballybacon (Baile Uí Bhéacáin), was part of its remit and the commission deemed it to be 66% Irish-speaking; as the government had set an 80% threshold for full Gaeltacht status, Ballybacon was deemed to be a breac-Ghaeltacht or ‘partly Irish-speaking district’.

The recording work of Albert Doegen (1877–1967) is discussed with particular reference to a single Ballybacon native, James Lyons or Séamas Ó Liatháin (1877–1934), who is placed in his linguistic, geographical and social context and in the context of state policy towards Irish-speaking districts.

The recordings made of his speech by Doegen have been transcribed and translated.
On the issue of the development of adjective degree forms in the Western Lithuanian and Latvian dialects
Authors: Kiseliūnaitė Dalia
Published: October 2024

In the Lithuanian and Latvian languages, forms of adjective degrees do not have a common etymological basis. The New Curonian (Kuresnieku) language which is a relatively new Baltic geolect has preserved a fairly distinct archaic layer of phonetics and grammar, where one can look not only for the archaisms of the western dialects of the Latvian language but also for traces of the substrate of Old Curonian. Although synthetic forms of the degrees of adjectives with the suffix -āk- are used in the current Latvian language area they are almost unknown in New Curonian. The forms of the comparative degree are made with the particle juo and an adjective of the positive degree. Analytical forms with the pronoun visu and the pronominal form of an adjective express the superlative degree. In the western Latvian and Lithuanian dialects and the Livonian language in Latvia, the relics of the analytical forms of the comparative and superlative degree are recorded in written sources and rarely in modern spoken language. Since a large part of the western dialects of the Lithuanian and Latvian languages take up the former territory of the old tribe, it may be assumed that the analytical forms of adjective degrees are possibly a sign of the substrate of Old Curonian.
Frequency Conditions in the Description of Historical Phonological Dialectal Differences
Authors: Bába Barbara
Published: October 2024

The primary and direct source material for describing phonological dialectal differences is represented by linguistic data found in charters. The source value of the data in particular charters for historical linguistics, however, may vary greatly. This is especially true for the earliest attested era, the early Old Hungarian period, which lasted from 895 to 1350. My study deals with the usability of linguistic records of the early Old Hungarian period. In this period the data found in charters are mainly proper names: place names and personal names, accordingly my examples are also of this category.
Language standardization and railway-walking distance. Levenshtein distance and distribution in GAJ
Authors: Inoue Fumio , Yarimizu Kanetaka
Published: October 2024

In this paper, new quantitative methods were applied to elucidate the geographical distribution of Japanese dialects. (1) Regional differences (individual differences) of usage rate of standard language at each locality in GAJ (Grammar Atlas of Japanese Dialects) were dealt with. (2) In addition to the railway distance from Tokyo to each locality, the walking distance from the railway stations to the survey localities was measured and used as the “railway-walking distance”. (3) Using a scatter-plot in what is called a “limestone cave model”, the values on the axis of standard language usage were reversed, and the Japan Islands were divided into east and west according to their direction from Tokyo. It showed that the standard language usage rate and distance show a proportional relationship even at each locality (individual informant) value. (4) Focusing on the prefectures near Tokyo, the distance from Tokyo regulates the usage rate. From this, the rapid spread of standard language from modern Tokyo and influence of railway can be ascertained. It was found that the phenomena pointed out by the average values by prefectures of vocabulary items in LAJ are valid to the data for each locality (individual) of GAJ.
Linguistic Study of Some Properties and Phonological Processes of Jooshani Dialect of Persian
Authors: Attarzadeh Muhammad , Rouhparvar Rahimeh
Published: October 2024

Jooshani dialect belongs to the Jooshan village, one of the villages of Golbaf town in Kerman city, Iran. The study tries to linguistically investigate and analyze the phonological processes of Jooshani. It also tries to present some grammatical and lexical features of this dialect. Here, Jooshani features are compared with those of Standard Persian (SP) and Kermani. The data have been gathered during nine years by one of the authors living in Jooshan and through close relations with the informants, most of whom were old, illiterate, and untraveled. The data are presented in three main parts: phonological system and phonological processes (metathesis, insertion, elision, lenition, spirantization, alternation, assimilation and devoicing), noun word-formation, and lexicon. The results obtained in each part showed that there are considerable differences between this language variety and the Standard Persian in all of the three above-mentioned parts.
Explaining the Dynamics and Stability of Dialects: A Representational Approach
Authors: Hoffmeister Toke
Published: October 2024

In this article, the focus is on the pivotal role of speakers in shaping language dynamics and dialectal stability, particularly within the context of dialectal variation. It is evident that language is intricately tied to human experience, serving as a tool for navigation, problem-solving, and social interaction. This article posits that understanding the interplay between language dynamics and stability of dialects requires a nuanced consideration of speakers and their practical relationships with the world as well as their linguistic mental representations. People are not passive recipients of language; rather, they actively engage with it in various contexts, adapting to new situations and influencing linguistic change. Through empirical examples from German dialectology, the article illustrates how speakers’ interactions with their environment shape language evolution. Overall, the article aims to provide insight into the role of speakers in driving linguistic change and maintaining linguistic conventions within dialectal contexts. By examining the practical relationships between speakers and their environment, it contributes to the development of a comprehensive framework for understanding the complexities of language variation and evolution considering linguistic representations.
High-efficiency quad-band RF energy harvesting system with improved cross-coupled differential-drive rectifier
Authors: Labbaf Majid , Bekrani Mehdi , Fathollahi Mohammadreza , Taskhiri Mohammad Mahdi
Published: October 2024

RF energy harvesting technology has garnered significant attention from researchers in recent years. This paper presents a high-efficiency quad-band RF energy harvesting (RFEH) system. It introduces an improved cross-coupled differential-drive rectifier designed for ambient wireless powering, capable of harnessing power from four distinct ambient RF sources: FM-100, DTV-600, GSM-1800, and WiFi-2400 frequency bands. The proposed RFEH system demonstrates notable advancements, achieving a high RF to DC conversion efficiency of over 80 % within an input power range of −5 dB m to +13 dB m, with a 5 kΩ resistance load. This power output is deemed sufficient for energizing low-power micro-devices autonomously, without reliance on external power sources. Notably, the DC output voltage of the proposed RFEH system exhibits a high level of stability against variations in input power, a characteristic not adequately addressed in existing systems.
Effects of novel autochthonous starter cultures on quality characteristics of yoghurt
Authors: Aktaş Haktan , Çetin Bülent
Published: October 2024

In the study, in order to develop novel starter cultures, three types of yoghurt were produced with different combinations of autochthonous yoghurt bacteria and the samples were investigated in terms of fermentation, microbiological quality, physicochemical properties (pH, acidity, water-holding capacity, apparent viscosities, and rheological properties), organic and benzoic acid contents, and sensory properties during 28 days. Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus content of all samples was between 7.29 and 8.58, and Streptococcus thermophilus content was between 8.03 and 9.02 log CFU/g during storage. Yoghurt type and storage time statistically affected pH, acidity, water-holding capacity, apparent viscosity, rheological properties, organic and benzoic acid content, and some sensory parameters. The general acceptability scores of the probiotic, traditional, exopolysaccharide, and control samples during storage were 8.27, 7.82, 7.53, and 7.47 respectively. Moreover, the results revealed that the strain combinations for probiotic, traditional, and exopolysaccharide yoghurt samples can be used as novel starter cultures for yoghurt production.
Seed priming with Aloe vera and Trichoderma asperellum improves germination in chickpea under osmotic and temperature stress
Authors: Kunduru Suchitra , Chaudhary Anita , Kamra Anju , Bana Ram Swaroop , Kumar Soora Naresh , Yalamalle Vishwanath Rohidas
Published: October 2024

The productivity of chickpea is often hampered by drought and extreme temperatures, especially during the early growth stages, which are intensifying with climate change. Chickpea seeds were primed with Aloe vera leaf extract (AvLE), Trichoderma asperellum and their combination.
Primed seeds were subjected to osmotic stress (0.0, -0.15 and -0.50 MPa) or temperature stress (high, 30°C; optimum, 20°C; and low, 15°C). Seed priming with AvLE and T. asperellum significantly improved chickpea performance under osmotic or temperature stress conditions
in comparison to hydro-primed seeds. Under osmotic stress, AvLE seed priming increased germination, seedling length, seedling dry weight, vigour index I and vigour index II by 18.4%, 54%, 25.6%, 50.8% and 64.7%, respectively. Similarly, under temperature stress, AvLE enhanced the germination
and vigour index I by 12% and 22.9%, respectively, while T. asperellum treatment resulted in a 15.8% increase in seedling length. The findings suggest that AvLE priming enhances the resilience chickpea seeds to adverse environmental conditions. Future investigations should focus on
unravelling the physiological and molecular stress response mechanisms underlying the observed germination and growth improvements provided by AvLE.
Supramolecular cyclodextrin complexes of biologically active nitrogen heterocycles
Authors: Seilkhanov Tulegen M. , Ten Assel Yu. , Tassibekov Khaidar S. , Seilkhanov Olzhas T. , Zharkynbek Tolganay Ye. , Tursynova Bagila G. , Yu Valentina K.
Published: October 2024

The review is devoted to the rapidly developing field of modern supramolecular chemistry - cyclodextrin complexes of biologically active nitrogen heterocycles, such as piperidines, piperazines, morpholines and pyridines. Interest in cyclodextrin complexes is growing due to the search and construction of supramolecular assemblies for targeted drug delivery. The latter is achieved as a result of supramolecular self-assembly, based on the principles of molecular recognition, and is one of the areas of modern chemistry, leading to the creation of new materials with new properties.
This review fully demonstrates the ongoing scientific and practical interest in the problem of encapsulation with cyclodextrins, including nanoencapsulation. Encapsulation with cyclodextrins provides a wide range of advantages: obtaining solid dosage forms from liquid ones, stabilizing and protecting active substances from the adverse effects of external factors, increasing solubility, increasing bioavailability, reducing toxicity, prolonging action, etc.
The presented review includes recent advances in the field of supramolecular complexes of biologically active nitrogen heterocycles with cyclodextrins and concludes with a discussion and identification of future promising directions for research. The review presents the results of supramolecular self-assembly of biologically active azaheterocycles with cyclodextrins.
E-Cigarettes in the Young Population
Authors: Wyrick Robert K.
Published: October 2024

E-cigarettes have gained notable popularity among youth in recent years, posing a serious societal issue that has elicited much concern from public health professionals and legislators. The increase in e-cigarette consumption among adolescents can be ascribed to assertive marketing strategies employed by corporations that focus on appealing to young consumers through flavored offerings and aesthetically pleasing designs. This rise is concerning because of the possible long-term health ramifications linked to vaping, such as nicotine addiction and exposure to hazardous chemicals found in numerous e-cigarette formulations. The normalization of e-cigarette usage in social contexts may result in heightened peer pressure and the endorsement of detrimental conduct. To properly address this issue, government agencies must enforce stronger rules on e-cigarette sales and marketing directed at minors, while schools and community organizations should educate youth about the risks of vaping.
Prevalence of E-Cigarettes in Children and Adolescents: A Failure of Public Health Prevention
Authors: Anish Surendra Anthony
Published: October 2024

The rising prevalence of e-cigarette use among children and adolescents poses a significant challenge to public health prevention efforts. As these electronic nicotine delivery systems gain popularity among youth, concerns about the health impacts and long-term consequences have escalated. In this article, we delve into the concerning trends of e-cigarette use among the younger population, exploring the factors driving this phenomenon and evaluating the failures in current public health prevention strategies. By examining the regulatory gaps in e-cigarette marketing to the youth and proposing interventions to combat this growing issue, we aim to shed light on the urgent need for stronger policies and enforcement mechanisms to protect the health and well-being of our youth.
Perspectiva de género en el Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), México: Construyendo una cultura de paz
Authors: Beltrán Lara María de Lourdes
Published: October 2024

The National Polytechnic Institute (IPN) is a Mexican public institution of higher education, currently comprising 102 academic units, founded in 1936 by Lázaro Cárdenas. The teaching staff, predominantly composed of military personnel, established a rigid, authoritarian, and patriarchal culture with gender-based violence. In 2001, the Institutional Educational Model introduced a holistic approach, facilitating the inclusion of a human rights course in the engineering curriculum. Despite the implementation of the current Model 4.0, the institutional culture has largely remained unchanged. In response, a gender perspective was introduced in 2009, followed by the establishment of the Polytechnic Unit for Gender Management in 2012. This unit created the Gender Network to extend its reach across the entire Institute, with the goal of eradicating the prevailing machismo. Today, the IPN is committed to adhering to both national and international regulations, such as the International Bill of Human Rights, the 2030 Agenda, and the CEDAW. In 2019, the IPN became the first national institution to implement a protocol for the “Prevention, Detection, Response, and Sanction of Gender Violence.” The Gender Network at ESIME Culhuacán unit identifies stereotypes that undermine human dignity; to contribute to their eradication, the unit implements denunciation campaigns against violence, harassment, and bullying, while it provides training on Human Rights, Feminism, Masculinities, Gender, and Education for Peace. Research is also conducted, such as the study on Gender Culture in the degree programs at ESIME Culhuacán, IPN (project number 20231736), which employs a postmodern feminist, constructivist approach.