bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Virtual Realities: Animation and Simulacrum in The Velveteen Rabbit ’s Tradition and Legacy
Authors: Humes Holly Blackford
Published: January 2024

The Velveteen Rabbit exists in a wide context of nonhuman characters who become sentient and experience the virtual game of testing the boundaries of reality. Using theory of puppetry, animation, simulacrum, and virtual reality, and applying the simulacra theory of Jean Baudrillard, this chapter seeks to understand how the intertwined concept of modernity and simulacra is deeply at issue throughout the story. The confusion of meaning in The Velveteen Rabbit is a tragic mirror of the century’s breakdown in distinctions between representations and referents, as the century transformed its experience by grasping for the real through images, models, and simulations of reality.
Visualizing Velveteen: Original Illustrations and Subsequent Adaptations
Authors: Blewett Kelly , Clapp-Itnyre Alisa
Published: January 2024

Relying on theories of illustration articulated by Molly Bang, William Moebius, Perry Nodelman, and others, this chapter argues that the original pictures by William Nicholson underscore the text’s deeper psychological themes in ways that later adaptations resist and reinterpret. Stylistic elements of the illustrations reflect the state of mind of the Rabbit as he negotiates two transformations (new toy to loved toy; loved toy to real rabbit). A significant resurgence of interest in the 1980s through the present has resulted in illustrated editions that tend to displace the Rabbit as the central figure in favor of emphasizing the Boy, as 1980s focus on childhood, child-psychology, and resistance to gender stereotypes now held sway.
Personhood and Love: Interrogating “Realness” in The Velveteen Rabbit
Authors: Mills Claudia
Published: January 2024

The Velveteen Rabbit can be read as a toy rabbit’s yearning for the moral status of “personhood.” In seeking to become “Real,” the Rabbit seeks the moral standing of a “person,” a being who has value in itself, value for its own sake. We may thus gain insight into this beloved text by examining the philosophical concept of “personhood”: what gives an entity moral standing, investing it with moral significance. The Velveteen Rabbit already possesses all the proposed criteria for personhood: he can reason, reflect, care for others, and feel deeply. An ongoing question in the philosophy of love is whether we love another in recognition of his value, or whether we confer value upon him through loving him. The Velveteen Rabbit achieves reality not as the passive object of another’s love, but as an active loving agent himself, not by being loved, but by loving.
Becoming Real through Matter That Matters: An Onto-Epistemological Analysis of The Velveteen Rabbit
Authors: Zabrzewska Adrianna
Published: January 2024

Inspired by the works of philosopher Karen Barad, Chapter 5 applies the categories of materiality and realness to investigate the Velveteen Rabbit’s onto-epistemological status and the relationship with his human companion. The process of becoming is a material-discursive process rooted in the experience of being a flawed, finite, and fragile body. When the Rabbit leaves the limited existence of a toy and embraces the elevated ideal of a “real” rabbit, his relationship with the Boy is rendered meaningless. Once the story reveals itself to be a fable of redemption and eternal life, love and materiality have no more place in it. As such, The Velveteen Rabbit illustrates both the principles of Barad’s philosophy and the order that this philosophy seeks to battle.
“Real” Stuffed Animals: Rabbit Tales in the Anthropocene
Authors: Rim Jiwon
Published: January 2024

This chapter places both the wild rabbits and the toy rabbit of The Velveteen Rabbit within a history of technological domination and the violent molding of animal bodies in the all-encompassing system of animal commodification. Walter Potter’s stuffed rabbits, taxidermies of once-living, historically real animals that do not look natural but instead resemble the rabbits of Beatrix Potter’s illustrations, point to the common origin of the image of the authentic wild animal and the denaturalized bodies of toy animals. The Velveteen Rabbit takes us to the world populated with denaturalized animals and haunted by the vision of the authentic natural animal, putting life into the plight of the thingified animal incorporated in the fully-fledged system of industrial capitalism.
Illustrations and the Eco-Reality of The Velveteen Rabbit
Authors: Zhang Wenduo
Published: January 2024

In the Japanese edition of The Velveteen Rabbit, adapted and illustrated by Komako Sakai, a miniature ecosystem of words and pictures interact with each other and create meaning through counterpoints as argued in this chapter’s eco-critical reading. Particular illustrating techniques contribute to our understanding of the story in ways articulated by scholars such as Maria Nikolajeva and Perry Nodelman. With detailed and colorful illustrations of nature, the pictures amplify a love of nature that the words do not explicitly mention. The last image simultaneously suggests the separation of humans from nature, and a longing of reunion, inviting us to read the story as an environmental text and to reflect on our relationship with nature in real life.
Born-Again Bunnies: The Velveteen Rabbit, Edward Tulane, and Redemptive Love
Authors: Malik Maleeha , Graves Elisabeth , Fraustino Lisa Rowe
Published: January 2024

This chapter examines the many similarities of detail suggesting that Kate DiCamillo’s The Miraculous Journey of EdwardTulane is an intertextual rewrite of The Velveteen Rabbit. However, while an underlying question of both stories remains “What does it mean to become real?” and the answer concerns being loved, DiCamillo provides a more nuanced and child-centric resolution through the developmental growth and change of Edward. In the end he is saved from eternal suffering by learning to love, accept loss, and open his broken heart to hope. With multiple Biblical allusions woven throughout the text and illustrations, both explicit and subtle, The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane can thus be read as an allegorical rewrite of The Velveteen Rabbit to replace becoming Real through “nursery magic” with the redeeming power of Christian love.
From Humpty Dumpty to Playboy (1965–1968)
Authors: Allen Paul V.
Published: January 2024

Chapter 9 looks at the three years between the end of King Aroo and the beginning of Jack’s career in children’s books. During this time Jack finds many outlets for his cartooning, including designing cards for Hallmark and contributing cartoons and stories to Parade Magazine, the Saturday Evening Post, MAD Magazine, Playboy, and Humpty Dumpty’s Magazine for Little Children.
ปัจจัยที่มีความสัมพันธ์กับการปรับตัวในการเลือกซื้ออาหารวิถีใหม่ของผู้สูงอายุ เขตจอมทอง กรุงเทพมหานคร
Authors:   นักศึกษามหาบัณฑิต สาขาวิชาคหกรรมศาสตรคณะเทคโนโลยีคหกรรมศาสตร์ มหาวิทยาลัยเทคโนโลยีราชมงคลพระนคร, วัฒนพงศ์ วิไลพรรณ , กี่อาริโย ชญาภัทร์ ,   ผู้ช่วยศาสตราจารย์ ดร.ประจำหลักสูตร สาขาวิชาคหกรรมศาสตร์ คณะเทคโนโลยีคหกรรมศาสตร์ มหาวิทยาลัยเทคโนโลยีราชมงคลพระนคร
Published: January 2024

การศึกษานี้มีวัตถุประสงค์เพื่อ 1) ศึกษาปัจจัยส่วนบุคคลของผู้สูงอายุเขตจอมทอง กรุงเทพมหานคร 2) ศึกษาการรับรู้ข้อมูลของโรคติดเชื้อไวรัสโคโรนาสายพันธุ์ใหม่ 2019 (COVID–19) 3) ศึกษาการปรับตัวในการซื้ออาหารวิถีใหม่ของผู้สูงอายุ 4) ศึกษาความสัมพันธ์ระหว่างปัจจัยส่วนบุคคลกับการปรับตัวในการซื้ออาหารวิถีใหม่ของผู้สูงอายุ และ 5) ศึกษาความสัมพันธ์ระหว่างการรับรู้ข้อมูลของโรคติดเชื้อไวรัสโคโรนาสายพันธุ์ใหม่ 2019 กับการปรับตัวในการซื้ออาหารวิถีใหม่ของผู้สูงอายุ กลุ่มตัวอย่าง คือ ผู้สูงอายุที่อาศัยอย่ในเขตจอมทอง กรุงเทพมหานคร จำนวน 400 คน จากการสุ่มใช้วิธีการเลือกตัวอย่างแบบบังเอิญ โดยเก็บรวบรวมข้อมูลตามความสะดวก เครื่องมือที่ใช้ในการศึกษาครั้งนี้เป็น แบบสอบถาม สถิติที่ใช้ในการวิเคราะห์ ได้แก่ ค่าความถี่ ร้อยละ และค่าไคสแควร์ ผลการศึกษา พบว่า 1) ปัจจัยส่วนบุคคลของผู้สูงอายุเขตจอมทอง กรุงเทพมหานคร พบว่า ส่วนใหญ่เป็นเพศหญิง มีอายุ 60-65 ปี สถานภาพสมรส โดยมีระดับการศึกษาประถม ที่มีรายได้เฉลี่ย ไม่เกิน 5,000 บาท/เดือน 2) การรับรู้ข้อมูลของโรคติดเชื้อไวรัสโคโรนาสายพันธุ์ใหม่ 2019 (COVID–19) พบว่า ผู้สูงอายุส่วนใหญ่ได้รับแหล่งที่มาของข้อมูลจากศูนย์บริหารสถานการณ์โควิค-19 กระทรวงสาธารณสุข ช่องทางการรับรู้ข้อมูลจากโทรทัศน์ การรับรู้ข้อมูลเกี่ยวกับวัคซีนป้องกันการโรคติดเชื้อไวรัสโคโรนาสายพันธุ์ใหม่ 2019 รับรู้ข้อมูลวัคซีนแอสทราเซเนกามากที่สุด 3) การปรับตัวในการเลือกซื้ออาหารวิถีใหม่ของผู้สูงอายุเขตจอมทอง กรุงเทพมหานครในสถานการณ์ระบาดของโรคติดเชื้อไวรัสโคโรนาสายพันธุ์ใหม่ 2019 (COVID–19) ของผู้สูงอายุเขตจอมทอง กรุงเทพมหานคร พบว่า ผู้สูงอายุมีพฤติกรรมการเตรียมตัวป้องกันก่อนการเลือกซื้ออาหารสวมหน้ากากอนามัย หรือหน้ากากผ้า พกเจลแอลกฮอล์ก่อนออกจากบ้านทุกครั้ง ชนิดของการวิถีใหม่ที่เลือกซื้อ อาหารสดประเภทเนื้อสัตว์ อาหารจานเดียวประเภท ข้าว อาหารแห้งและอาหารกึ่งสำเร็จรูปประเภทเส้น อาหารพร้อมปรุง/พร้อมทานแช่แข็งประเภทผลิตภัณฑ์เนื้อสัตว์แช่แข็ง เครื่องดื่มประเภทน้ำเปล่า ขนมหวานประเภทขนมไทยชนิดต่างๆ การเลือกซื้อจากผู้ขายที่มีการแต่งกายเหมาะสม มีผ้ากันเปื้อนสะอาด สวมหน้ากากอนามัย สวมถุงมือขณะหยิบอาหาร ซื้ออาหารด้วยตัวเอง ที่ตลาดสดใกล้บ้าน มีค่าใช้จ่ายในการเลือกซื้ออาหารต่อครั้ง 201-300 บาท 4) ปัจจัยส่วนบุคคลมีความสัมพันธ์กับการปรับตัวเลือกซื้ออาหารวิถีใหม่ของผู้สูงอายุเขตจอมทอง กรุงเทพมหานคร อย่างมีนัยสำคัญทางสถิติที่ระดับ .05 และ 5) การรับรู้ข้อมูลโรคติดเชื้อไวรัสโคโรนาสายพันธุ์ใหม่ 2019 (COVID–19) มีความสัมพันธ์กับการปรับตัวเลือกซื้ออาหารวิถีใหม่ของผู้สูงอายุเขตจอมทอง กรุงเทพมหานคร ยกเว้นด้านแหล่งที่มาของข้อมูลการระบาดของโรคติดเชื้อไวรัสโคโรนาสายพันธุ์ใหม่ 2019 (COVID–19) และด้านการรับรู้ข้อมูลเกี่ยวกับวัคซีนป้องกันโรคติดเชื้อไวรัสโคโรนาสายพันธุ์ใหม่ 2019 (COVID–19) อย่างมีนัยสำคัญทางสถิติที่ระดับ .05
การศึกษาปัญหาและความต้องการของนักศึกษาระดับอนุปริญญา สถาบันการบินพลเรือนในการเรียนภาษาอังกฤษ เพื่อจุดมุ่งหมายเฉพาะในอุตสาหกรรมการบิน
Authors:   กองวิชาภาษาอังกฤษและสนับสนุนการบิน  สถาบันการบินพลเรือน, อินธนู นิติรัตน์ , สิงหโชติสุขแพทย์ ณภคอร ,   กองวิชาภาษาอังกฤษและสนับสนุนการบิน  สถาบันการบินพลเรือน, เชาว์คงคา ศรณรงค์ ,   กองวิชาภาษาอังกฤษและสนับสนุนการบิน  สถาบันการบินพลเรือน
Published: January 2024

ในปัจจุบันหลักสูตรการเรียนการสอนของสถาบันการบินพลเรือนมีรายวิชาภาษาอังกฤษเพื่อจุดมุ่งหมายเฉพาะที่มีเนื้อหาเฉพาะทางด้านการบิน และมีการเรียนการสอนเป็นภาษาอังกฤษทั้งหมด ซึ่งอาจเป็นอุปสรรคในการเรียนภาษาอังกฤษเพื่อจุดมุ่งหมายของนักศึกษาระดับอนุปริญญาได้ ผู้วิจัยจึงกำหนดวัตถุประสงค์ในการวิจัยดังนี้ 1) เพื่อศึกษาปัญหาและความต้องการของนักศึกษาระดับอนุปริญญาในการเรียนภาษาอังกฤษเพื่อจุดมุ่งหมายเฉพาะทั้งด้านผู้สอน ด้านเนื้อหารายวิชา และด้านความสามารถในการใช้ภาษาอังกฤษ 2) เพื่อศึกษาเปรียบเทียบระดับผลคะแนนภาษาอังกฤษพื้นฐานกับภาษาอังกฤษเพื่อจุดมุ่งหมายเฉพาะ เพื่อระบุปัญหาและความต้องการของนักศึกษาในการเรียนภาษาอังกฤษเพื่อจุดมุ่งหมายเฉพาะ และ 3) เพื่อเสนอแนวทางการพัฒนาการเรียนการสอนในรายวิชาภาษาอังกฤษเพื่อจุดมุ่งหมายเฉพาะ โดยศึกษาและเก็บข้อมูลแบบสอบถามและการสัมถาษณ์จากนักศึกษาระดับอนุปริญญาชั้นปีที่ 1 และ 2 วิชาเอกเครื่องวัดประกอบการบิน (AT-AI) วิชาเอกเครื่องยนต์แก๊สเทอร์ไบน์ (AMEL) และวิชาเอกอิเล็กทรอนิกส์การบิน (AT-AE) ที่ลงทะเบียนเรียนรายวิชาภาษาอังกฤษเพื่อจุดมุ่งหมายเฉพาะและภาษาอังกฤษทั่วไป จำนวน 110 คน และ เก็บข้อมูลจากการสัมภาษณ์จำนวน 30 คน รวมถึงสัมภาษณ์ครูผู้สอนจำนวน 2 คนในรายวิชาดังกล่าวด้วย ผลการศึกษาพบว่า เนื้อหาในรายวิชามีความเหมาะสมกับระดับความสามารถด้านภาษาของผู้เรียน ไม่ง่ายเกินไปและไม่ยากเกินไป บทเรียนมีความน่าสนใจ สื่อและโสตทัศนูปกรณ์ที่ใช้ในการเรียนการสอนเป็นที่น่าพอใจนักศึกษาได้รับความรู้ในเรื่องคำศัพท์เฉพาะในระดับมาก หลักสูตรและการจัดการเรียนการสอนที่มีอยู่มีความเหมาะสมตามความต้องการของนักศึกษา ในด้านทักษะทางภาษาอังกฤษ ผู้เรียนคิดว่าตนเองมีความสามารถทางด้านการอ่านมากที่สุด และการเขียนน้อยที่สุด ผู้สอนมีความรู้เกี่ยวกับเนื้อหาเฉพาะและความสามารถในการสอน และมีความเชื่อในศักยภาพของผู้สอนว่าเป็นผู้มีความรู้ความสามารถ สามารถใช้สื่อการเรียนการสอนได้อย่างเหมาะสม แม้ว่านักศึกษาจะมีความพึงพอใจในด้านต่างๆในระดับมาก จากการสำรวจพบว่า นักศึกษากลับมีระดับผลการเรียนเฉลี่ยในรายวิชาภาษาอังกฤษทั่วไปในระดับปานกลาง ระดับผลการเรียนเฉลี่ยในรายวิชาภาษาอังกฤษเพื่อจุดมุ่งหมายเฉพาะอยู่ในระดับต่ำ จึงเห็นควรให้มีรายวิชาที่เพิ่มทักษะในการใช้ภาษาให้มากขึ้น เพื่อฝึกฝนการใช้ภาษาให้มีประสิทธิภาพ และใช้ได้จริงในการทำงาน อีกทั้งครูผู้สอนเองเห็นว่าควรพัฒนาในเรื่องการนำเทคโนโลยีเข้ามาใช้ในการเรียนการสอนมากขึ้น เพื่อให้นักศึกษาได้เข้าใจเนื้อหา ได้อย่างลึกซึ้งยิ่งขึ้น
การพัฒนาแอปพลิเคชันเกมมือถือสำหรับเด็กปฐมวัยเพื่อส่งเสริมทักษะทางด้านการฟัง และออกเสียงคำศัพท์ภาษาอังกฤษ
Authors:   ภาควิชาเทคโนโลยีวิศวกรรมอิเล็กทรอนิกส์ วิทยาลัยเทคโนโลยีอุตสาหกรรม มหาวิทยาลัยเทคโนโลยีพระจอมเกล้าพระนครเหนือ, สรรค์สิกขากุล ศาสดา , แสนคำ ชนิดา ,   ภาควิชาเทคโนโลยีวิศวกรรมอิเล็กทรอนิกส์ วิทยาลัยเทคโนโลยีอุตสาหกรรม มหาวิทยาลัยเทคโนโลยีพระจอมเกล้าพระนครเหนือ, ตั้งสิริวรกุล ชาญวิทย์ ,   ภาควิชาเทคโนโลยีวิศวกรรมอิเล็กทรอนิกส์ วิทยาลัยเทคโนโลยีอุตสาหกรรม มหาวิทยาลัยเทคโนโลยีพระจอมเกล้าพระนครเหนือ, จันทร์วิพัฒน์ สุพจน์ ,   ภาควิชาเทคโนโลยีวิศวกรรมอิเล็กทรอนิกส์ วิทยาลัยเทคโนโลยีอุตสาหกรรม มหาวิทยาลัยเทคโนโลยีพระจอมเกล้าพระนครเหนือ
Published: January 2024

งานวิจัยนี้มีวัตถุประสงค์เพื่อ 1) ศึกษาแนวทางการพัฒนาทักษะการฟังและการออกเสียงคำศัพท์ภาษาอังกฤษในเด็กปฐมวัย 2) พัฒนาแอปพลิเคชั่นเกมบนอุปกรณ์พกพาสำหรับส่งเสริมทักษะการฟังและการออกเสียงคำศัพท์ภาษาอังกฤษในเด็กปฐมวัย โดยการออกแบบแอปพลิเคชันประกอบด้วยโหมดการเล่น 2 โหมด คือ (1) โหมดเรียนรู้คำศัพท์เพื่อพัฒนาและฝึกทักษะในการฟัง ประกอบด้วย 5 หมวดย่อย ผู้เล่นจะได้ฟังการออกเสียงของคำศัพท์ต่างๆ จากสำเนียงเจ้าของภาษา และจดจำคำศัพท์และการออกเสียงเพื่อนำไปเล่นในโหมดเกม (2) โหมดเกมเพื่อพัฒนาและฝึกทักษะในการออกเสียง มีทั้งหมด 6 ด่าน ในโหมดเกมผู้เล่นจะต้องออกเสียงคำศัพท์ภาษาอังกฤษให้ตรงกับภาพคำศัพท์ที่ปรากฏขึ้นแบบสุ่มตลอดระยะเวลาการเล่นเกมในด่านนั้นๆ โดยงานวิจัยนี้ได้ทำการศึกษาและรวบรวมข้อมูลเพื่อการออกแบบแอปพลิเคชัน รวมถึงได้นำแอปพลิเคชันที่พัฒนาขึ้นไปทำการทดสอบกับกลุ่มตัวอย่างจำนวน 16 คน ซึ่งประกอบด้วย ผู้ปกครองและครูผู้สอนภาษาอังกฤษในระดับอนุบาล ซึ่งจากการประเมินความพึงพอใจของผู้ใช้งานระบบทุกกลุ่มพบว่าผู้ใช้งานมีความพึงพอใจเฉลี่ยอยู่ในระดับมาก โดยแอปพลิเคชันให้ทั้งความเพลิดเพลินพร้อมพร้อมทั้งปลูกฝังทักษะการเรียนรู้ทางด้านการฟังและการออกเสียงคำศัพท์ภาษาอังกฤษ ซึ่งสามารถนำไปประยุกต์ใช้เป็นสื่อการเรียนการสอนกับกลุ่มเป้าหมายได้อย่างเหมาะสม
Carabid beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) from the upper course of the Neretva River in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Paill Wolfgang , Gunczy Johanna
Published: January 2024

During a four-day collection period, 89 ground beetle species were found in the upper course of the Neretva valley near Ulog. Many of them are classified as riparian floodplain specialists. A large proportion of these species, such as Bembidion conforme, have their main distribution in Central Europe, but are very rare in the Balkans. Consequently, these findings form important arguments revealing the upper Neretva to be of high importance in terms of nature conservation.
New records of Nevrorthus apatelios H. Aspöck, U. Aspöck and Hölzel, 1977 (Neuroptera: Nevrorthidae) from Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Randolf Susanne , Andjus Stefan , Tubić Bojana , Bruckner Harald , Brojer Michaela , Zagmajster Maja
Published: January 2024

During the »Neretva Science Week« in summer 2022, two larvae of Nevrorthus apatelios were found in Eastern Bosnia and Herzegovina. These are the first confirmations of the species in the country since a single observation of one adult from Sarajevo almost 100 years ago. New records come from two sites of the upper course of the Neretva River, near Ulog village: one larva was found in a benthic fauna sample collected at the river bottom near Rastovac, while the second was pumped from the river interstitial at depths 30-60 cm, in the area near Cerova. Based on these findings we provide a description of the larva. Nevrorthus apatelios lives in highly oxygenated waters, and is a good indicator of clean waters. We discuss the potential reasons for rare observations of the species in the country, and conservation implications in light of ongoing environmental pressures in the currently pristine part of the upper course of Neretva River.
Reflections of Chinese Middle School English Instructors and Learners on Efficiency of English Education
Authors: Wu Yiqiang , Fu Ping , Hall Timothy
Published: January 2024

This article sheds light on a survey study on the reflection of English teaching and learning by teachers and students in high schools in China. Forty-Two English teachers and 156 students from four high schools in Hunan Province participated in the study. They responded to questions through an online survey about their English learning and teaching experience. The survey also asked the participants to share their comments and opinions on how to make improvement and changes to make English education more effective and efficient. The data were discussed and analyzed in comparing with English learning experience and process of native speakers of English in the United States. Findings of this study suggest that more exposure to authentic English, extensive reading, and daily oral communication be enhanced to improve the learners’ proficiency. This study indicates that the current learning process and instructional sequence are not effective and efficient. Some fundamental issues related to learning sequence, learning efficiency, curriculum policy and design are addressed, and suggestions are made for future research and English education reform.
The power of denial. From denial to creation: creative resistance in the city of Athens
Authors: Zafeiris Konstantinos
Published: January 2024

The crisis leads to multiple denials in the face of everyday life and the conditions of reproduction of work it imposes. In this paper, I describe the basic denials in spaces of creative resistance in Athens during multiple crises. Through a systematic study of collaborative economy spaces, solidarity structures, and independent art spaces, I discern a progression of individuals from denial to creation and ultimately to action. I also strive to articulate the emerging modes of mobilization within these spaces. Faced with this reality, the act of denial emerges as the primary and transformative catalyst, sparking the forces of creativity and resistance. The denials of everyday life imposed by neoliberalism, as witnessed in Athens during the crisis, resulted in the creation of autonomous and self-organized spaces.
The Role of Small States in Promoting International Security: Lithuania Strategy
Authors: Malużinas Martinas
Published: January 2024

The aim of the present article is to analyse the efforts taken aimed to build the security of the region as part of Lithuanian foreign policy in the international arena in the era of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This article seeks to verify the hypothesis that small states are able to set in motion a process that can benefit the entire region, and thus they may contribute to building international peace and security. The theoretical basis of the research is post-structural theory, from its perspective Lithuania accepts and actively shapes its identity as a small state, which is defined primarily in relation to its large and dangerous neighbor. This helps explain the small country’s consistent pursuit of integration and being an active player in the international arena, which was supposed to help it break away from the Soviet past and “return to the West.” Thus, this study contributes to knowledge on the practice of international relations by reflecting on the growing role of the Baltic States.
The United States and Ukraine’s Aspirations for NATO Membership
Authors: Jureńczyk Łukasz
Published: January 2024

The aim of the article is to analyze and evaluate the attitude of the United States towards Ukraine’s aspirations for NATO membership after the Cold War. Particular attention was paid to the period after the outbreak of war in 2022. The main research problem is the following questions: What role does Ukraine play in the US-Russia geostrategic rivalry after the Cold War? Has the United States been determined and consistent in supporting Ukraine’s aspirations for NATO membership after the Cold War? Has the outbreak of war in Ukraine in 2022 affected the US attitude towards Ukraine’s aspirations for NATO membership? The United States supported NATO’s “open door” policy, including the possibility of joining the Alliance by post-Soviet states, including Ukraine. However, international factors and the situation in Ukraine meant that the US was not determined to finalize this process, and the approach of individual US administrations to this issue fluctuated. The outbreak of war in Ukraine in 2022 caused the US to postpone the issue of Ukraine’s possible membership in NATO for the post-war period. During the research, experts and scientists from research centers in Washington D.C. and New York were interviewed. The method of content analysis of text sources was also used.
Neoauthoritarianism as a Challenge to Global Security
Authors: Khoma Nataliia , Nikolayeva Maiia
Published: January 2024

The purpose of the study is to determine the features of neoauthoritarianism as a political regime, its tools, and consequences for global security. It is reasoned that neoauthoritarianism is an undemocratic system of methods and means of exercising centralized state power, which is characterized by the formalisation of democratic principles, institutions and procedures, and the use of digitalization to realize the goals of the regime. The features and tools of neoauthoritarianism are systematized, and the probable consequences of neoauthoritarianism on a global scale are assessed. The following features of neoauthoritarian regimes are determined: reduction of the role of ideology; integration into the global capitalist economy; imitation of a democratic facade; covert forms of pressure and control, manipulation, propaganda; providing a legal basis for any undemocratic initiatives; using the advantages of democratization, globalization, digitalization to achieve the regime’s destructive goals, etc. The following tools of neoauthoritarian influence are determined: power tools, tools of influence within the scope of “soft power,” tools of subversion, tools for changing values, electoral tools, tools of pressure on international organizations, etc. It is proven that due to neoauthoritarian intervention, the risks to global security are increased. The main consequence of ascending neoauthoritarianism on a global scale is the fact that neoauthoritarian regimes have endangered democracy as the dominant global model, reshaping the global security architecture.
Strategic Significance of Joint Committees for Cooperation Between Three Seas Initiative’s Countries and the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Krzymowski Adam
Published: January 2024

The 21st century has brought many changes both in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) and in the Middle East, where the United Arab Emirates demonstrates its will play the role of a leader in many initiatives in the international arena. In 2016, 12 CEE countries launched the Three Seas Initiative (3SI) for the implementation of strategic economic projects to adapt to new international challenges. This research paper aims to find an answer to the research question of what is the Joint Committees’ – J(E)C role and significance for relations between the United Arab Emirates and Three Seas Initiative countries? To achieve the set research goal, both quantitative and qualitative methods were applied, considering the quantitative potential of the analysed countries’ power to adapt to the international environment and influence its players. Then, a comparative analysis was used in terms of J(E)C sessions, top-level visits, and trade trends. The research findings show that the most important thing to achieve the strategic level of relations is the political will and the appropriate strategy. However, countries with high potential, and perceived power, do not need J(E)C for the stable development of economic cooperation. The research results indicate that in strategic partnership with the UAE, Austria has a role and position in energy and Romania in transport. On the other hand, Poland connecting both strategic routes appear as an economic hub.
Merkel cells and keratinocytes in oral mucosa are activated by mechanical stimulation
Authors: Tong Chi‐Kun , Moayedi Yalda , Lumpkin Ellen A.
Published: January 2024

The detection of mechanical qualities of foodstuffs is essential for nutrient acquisition, evaluation of food freshness, and bolus formation during mastication. However, the mechanisms through which mechanosensitive cells in the oral cavity transmit mechanical information from the periphery to the brain are not well defined. We hypothesized Merkel cells, which are epithelial mechanoreceptors and important for pressure and texture sensing in the skin, can be mechanically activated in the oral cavity. Using live‐cell calcium imaging, we recorded Merkel cell activity in ex vivo gingival and palatal preparations from mice in response to mechanical stimulation. Merkel cells responded with distinct temporal patterns and activation thresholds in a region‐specific manner, with Merkel cells in the hard palate having a higher mean activation threshold than those in the gingiva. Unexpectedly, we found that oral keratinocytes were also activated by mechanical stimulation, even in the absence of Merkel cells. This indicates that mechanical stimulation of oral mucosa independently activates at least two subpopulations of epithelial cells. Finally, we found that oral Merkel cells contribute to preference for consuming oily emulsion. To our knowledge, these data represent the first functional study of Merkel‐cell physiology and its role in flavor detection in the oral cavity.
Neue Interpretation des Fragments 46a K. von Euripides’Alexandros
Authors: Kontorlis Nikolaos
Published: January 2024

The present study deals with Euripides Alexandros, fr. 46a K. Detailed analysis suggests that it does not come from the first scenes of the play and contain a conversation with Priam about the significance of the upcoming funeral games, but from the Cassandra scene: col. 1 is part of the seer’s speech to Hecabe; col. 2 has traces of the last section of the Epeisodion. It is argued that Cassandra’s prophetic appearance does not take place during the altar scene, but before the murderous attack on Paris.
Yet Another Conflict over a Cloak in an Unpublished Enteuxis (P. Sorb. inv. 2444)
Authors: Aguer Laura , Coomans Diane
Published: January 2024

Edition of a papyrus from the Sorbonne’s collection that was recovered during the excavations of Pierre Jouguet in Magdola and Ghoran; it contains an unpublished enteuxis.
Quittung an die Dorfältesten über den Einsatz von Arbeitern
Authors: Jedrzejewski Jakub , Schütze Alexander , Seyr Philipp , Free Alexander
Published: January 2024

Edition of a receipt found during excavations in a house in the mountain settlement of Tuna el-Gebel.
A high throughput immuno-affinity mass spectrometry method for detection and quantitation of SARS-CoV-2 nucleoprotein in human saliva and its comparison with RT-PCR, RT-LAMP, and lateral flow rapid antigen test
Authors: Lane Dan , Allsopp Rebecca , Holmes Christopher W. , Slingsby Oliver C. , Jukes-Jones Rebekah , Bird Paul , Anderson N. Leigh , Razavi Morteza , Yip Richard , Pearson Terry W. , Pope Matt , Khunti Kamlesh , Doykov Ivan , Hällqvist Jenny , Mills Kevin , Skipp Paul , Carling Rachel , Ng Leong , Shaw Jacqui , Gupta Pankaj , Jones Donald J.L.
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Many reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) methods exist that can detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA in different matrices. RT-PCR is highly sensitive, although viral RNA may be detected long after active infection has taken place. SARS-CoV-2 proteins have shorter detection windows hence their detection might be more meaningful. Given salivary droplets represent a main source of transmission, we explored the detection of viral RNA and protein using four different detection platforms including SISCAPA peptide immunoaffinity liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (SISCAPA-LC-MS) using polyclonal capture antibodies.

Methods

The SISCAPA-LC MS method was compared to RT-PCR, RT-loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP), and a lateral flow rapid antigen test (RAT) for the detection of virus material in the drool saliva of 102 patients hospitalised after infection with SARS-CoV-2. Cycle thresholds (Ct) of RT-PCR (E gene) were compared to RT-LAMP time-to-positive (TTP) (NE and Orf1a genes), RAT optical densitometry measurements (test line/control line ratio) and to SISCAPA-LC-MS for measurements of viral protein.

Results

SISCAPA-LC-MS showed low sensitivity (37.7 %) but high specificity (89.8 %). RAT showed lower sensitivity (24.5 %) and high specificity (100 %). RT-LAMP had high sensitivity (83.0 %) and specificity (100.0 %). At high initial viral RNA loads (<20 Ct), results obtained using SISCAPA-LC-MS correlated with RT-PCR (R2 0.57, p-value 0.002).

Conclusions

Detection of SARS-CoV-2 nucleoprotein in saliva was less frequent than the detection of viral RNA. The SISCAPA-LC-MS method allowed processing of multiple samples in <150 min and was scalable, enabling high throughput.
The effects of pioglitazone and rosiglitazone on liver function in hypothyroid rats
Authors: Baghcheghi Yousef , Beheshti Farimah , Seyedi Fatemeh , Hedayati-Moghadam Mahdiyeh , Askarpour Hedyeh , Kheirkhah Aliasghar , Golkar Ahmad , Dalfardi Mohammad , Hosseini Mahmoud
Published: January 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant effect of rosiglitazone (ROG) and pioglitazone (POG) on oxidative damage and dysfunction of hepatic tissue in hypothyroid rats.

Methods

The male rats were classified into six groups: (1) Control; (2) Hypothyroid, (3) Hypothyroid-POG 10, (4) Hypothyroid-POG 20, (5) Hypothyroid-ROG 2, and (6) Hypothyroid-ROG 4. To induction hypothyroidism in rats, propylthiouracil (PTU) (0.05 %w/v) was added to drinking water. In groups 2–6, besides PTU, the rats were also intraperitoneal administrated with 10 or 20 mg/kg POG or 2 or 4 mg/kg ROG for six weeks. Finally, after deep anesthesia, the blood was collected to measure the serum biochemical markers and hepatic tissue was separated for biochemical oxidative stress markers.

Results

Administration of PTU significantly reduced serum thyroxin concentration, total thiol levels, activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) enzymes, and increased serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (Alk-P) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the liver. Additionally, our results showed that prescription of POG or ROG for six weeks to hypothyroid rats resulted in an improvement in liver dysfunction (decrease in serum levels of AST, ALT, and ALK-P) through reducing oxidative damage in hepatic tissue (increase in CAT, SOD, or total thiols and decrease in MDA levels).

Conclusions

The findings of the present study presented that the IP administration of POG and ROG for six weeks improves liver dysfunction induced by hypothyroidism in juvenile rats by reducing oxidative damage.
Thermodynamics of micro- and nano-scale flow and heat transfer: a mini-review
Authors: Guo Yangyu , Wang Moran
Published: January 2024

The modeling and understanding of micro- and nano-scale transport processes have raised increasing attention and extensive investigation during the past decades. In this mini-review, we aim to summarize our recent progress on the non-equilibrium thermodynamics of micro- and nano-scale flow and heat transfer. Special emphasis is put on the entropy generation at the interface, which plays a dominant role at small scale due to the strong non-equilibrium nature of particle-boundary interaction. We also prove the thermodynamic compatibility of both the macroscopic hydrodynamic equation and the non-equilibrium boundary conditions from the perspective of bulk and interfacial entropy generations respectively, as supported by the kinetic theory of microscopic particles. The present review will contribute to a clearer elaboration of thermodynamics at micro/nano-scale and its statistical mechanical demonstration, and thus will promote its further development in the future.
Optical mode-controlled topological edge state in waveguide lattice
Authors: Zhou Changyu , Xie Zhenwei , Lei Ting , Zhang Yao , Chen Qinmiao , Yuan Xiaocong
Published: January 2024

Topological edge state (TES) has emerged as a significant research focus in photonics due to its unique property of unidirectional transmission. This feature provides immunity to certain structural disorders or perturbations, greatly improving the robustness of photonic systems and enabling various applications such as optical isolation and topological lasers. Nevertheless, most of current researches focus on the fixed generated TES with no means to control, leaving untapped potential for manipulating the TES through specific methods. In this work, we propose a topological Su–Schriffer–Heeger (SSH) waveguides-lattice scheme that enables the controllable TES without changing the topological phase of the system. Light is selectively localized at the edges of the SSH waveguide lattice, which is determined by the special waveguide modes. Eventually, achieving an effective mode splitter. To validate our proposal, we further demonstrate such mode-controlled TES with a fabricated on-chip device in experiment. The experimentally tested results confirm a successful separation of the waveguide modes with the mode extinction ratio of approximately 10 dB in each channel near the wavelength of 1550 nm. This scheme presents a promising approach for manipulating the TES in photonic systems, thereby facilitating the design of optical controllable topological photonic devices.
Metabolomics: a review of liquid chromatography mass spectrometry-based methods and clinical applications
Authors: Doğan Halef Okan
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Metabolomics is a rapidly growing field that aims to understand the complex metabolic pathways involved in health and disease. Liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS) based untargeted metabolomics has emerged as a powerful tool for investigating the metabolic changes associated with various diseases, and for identifying potential biomarkers for early disease detection and treatment monitoring. This review provides a comprehensive overview of LC-MS based untargeted metabolomics and its clinical applications.

Content

The advantages and challenges of untargeted metabolomics are discussed, encompassing sample preparation, data processing, sample storage, acquisition mode selection, column strategy, and annotation. The latest advancements in LC-MS technology and data analysis techniques are reviewed, which have facilitated the more accurate and sensitive detection of metabolites in biological samples. The clinical applications of untargeted metabolomics are emphasized, including its utilization in disease diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and personalized medicine. Examples are provided of how biomarkers for various diseases, such as cancer, coronary heart disease, and infectious disease, have been identified through the application of untargeted metabolomics.

Summary and outlook

Overall, LC-MS based untargeted metabolomics is a powerful tool for investigating the complex metabolic changes associated with various diseases, and has the potential to transform clinical diagnosis, treatment, and personalized medicine.
Removal of CO in flue gas by catalytic oxidation: a review
Authors: Shen Zhenghua , Xing Xiangdong , Wang Sunxuan , Ren Shan , Lv Ming , Zheng Zhaoying , Jiang Xu
Published: January 2024

Most coal-fired industrial flue gases contained low concentration CO. How to deal with it effectively was a research hotspot in recent years. Catalytic oxidation was considered as the most promising method in the 21st century for the removement of CO with the high efficiency, environmentally friendly, easy to operate and low cost. In this review, the reaction mechanisms of CO oxidation were described, which could provide ideas for the development of new catalysts. The effects of supports and preparation methods on catalysts activity was also reviewed systematically. In addition, some suggestions and outlooks were provided for future development of CO catalytic oxidation.
Homology modeling and molecular docking study of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 variant F: an attempt to develop drugs for treating CNS diseases
Authors: Ahmad Nasir , Khan Khalid , Rashid Haroon ur , Khan Sher Wali , Umar Muhammad Naveed , Gulfam Naila , Zahoor Muhammad , Ullah Riaz , Ali Essam A.
Published: January 2024

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute the largest protein family involved in signal transduction and are the main targets for drug delivery. The metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) are class C of GPCRs that contribute to the modulation of glutamatergic neurotransmission which regulates vital physiological processes and is recognized as a potential therapeutic target throughout the central nervous system. Intracellular C-terminal domains of mGluR are the main targets for proteins regulating these receptors and are also involved in alternative splicing, regulation by phosphorylation, and modulatory protein-protein interactions. Class C of GPCRs exist as dimers and is mediated by interactions between the venus tryflap domain and the transmembrane domain. The mGluR5 variant F can be regulated by both positive and negative allosteric modulators that can potentiate or inhibit the endogenous ligand and glutamate, respectively. Moreover, mGluR5 is involved in many disorders including fragile X syndrome/autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, addiction, chronic pain and epilepsy, etc. The main purpose of current computational work is to determine the 3D structures of the target protein and their active sites to design new drug molecules as potential biochemical agents. The 3D model of the mGluR5 variant F was constructed through homology modeling techniques using MOE and I-TESSER programs. RAMPAGE and ERRATE online servers were used for the 3D structure evaluation and validation. Furthermore, the mGluR5 variant F was docked with 20 mavoglurant derivatives that act as antagonists. Mavoglurant derivatives 3, 4, 6, 10, 13, 18, and 19 showed a maximum of four interactions with the mGluR5 variant F, whereas derivatives 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 15, 16, 17 and 20 showed a maximum of three interactions with the mGluR5 variant F. The remaining four mavoglurant derivatives expressed two interactions each with mGluR5 variant F. The docking score for these derivatives ranged between −15.55 and −08.210 kcal mol−1 suggesting their strong interactions with the mGluR5 variant F. Their 3D structure and docking study provides a potential base for the synthesis of new drug candidates to treat brain disorders.
Striatal and Behavioral Responses to Reward Vary by Socioeconomic Status in Adolescents
Authors: Decker Alexandra L. , Meisler Steven L. , Hubbard Nicholas A. , Bauer Clemens C. C. , Leonard Julia , Grotzinger Hannah , Giebler Melissa A. , Torres Yesi Camacho , Imhof Andrea , Romeo Rachel , Gabrieli John D. E.
Published: January 2024

Disparities in socioeconomic status (SES) lead to unequal access to financial and social support. These disparities are believed to influence reward sensitivity, which in turn are hypothesized to shape how individuals respond to and pursue rewarding experiences. However, surprisingly little is known about how SES shapes reward sensitivity in adolescence. Here, we investigated how SES influenced adolescent responses to reward, both in behavior and the striatum—a brain region that is highly sensitive to reward. We examined responses to both immediate reward (tracked by phasic dopamine) and average reward rate fluctuations (tracked by tonic dopamine) as these distinct signals independently shape learning and motivation. Adolescents (n = 114; 12–14 years; 58 female) performed a gambling task during functional magnetic resonance imaging. We manipulated trial-by-trial reward and loss outcomes, leading to fluctuations between periods of reward scarcity and abundance. We found that a higher reward rate hastened behavioral responses, and increased guess switching, consistent with the idea that reward abundance increases response vigor and exploration. Moreover, immediate reward reinforced previously rewarding decisions (win–stay, lose–switch) and slowed responses (postreward pausing), particularly when rewards were scarce. Notably, lower-SES adolescents slowed down less after rare rewards than higher-SES adolescents. In the brain, striatal activations covaried with the average reward rate across time and showed greater activations during rewarding blocks. However, these striatal effects were diminished in lower-SES adolescents. These findings show that the striatum tracks reward rate fluctuations, which shape decisions and motivation. Moreover, lower SES appears to attenuate reward-driven behavioral and brain responses.
Standard Penetration Test in Malaysia: Safety Issues and Improvement Opportunities
Authors: Abu Bakar Aishah , Rizal Imran Nur Afifah Fatinnisa'
Published: January 2024

Standard Penetration Test (SPT) is the most frequently used field test for site investigation where drilling work is performed in-situ to determine properties of geomaterials for a project. The SPT results can be affected by the ‘SPT System,’ which includes the operator of the drill rig, the specific model of the drill rig itself, the SPT equipment used to perform the test, and the procedures used in performing the overall test. The safety hazards associated with the system affect the SPT results. Although several countries are embracing innovative technologies in the SPT drilling works to enhance safety performance, the adoption of these technologies in Malaysia remains relatively sluggish. This study aims to analyse the current SPT practice in Malaysia from the lens of ‘the SPT System,’ technologies used in the SPT drilling works, and identify the best practice adopted locally in ensuring safety. This study collected 102 responses using a questionnaire survey validated by four construction professionals experienced in the SPT drilling works. The study revealed that the British Standards are the most used standards in Malaysia. The traditional methods are still being practiced as the “SPT System’ in Malaysia due to the difficulties in obtaining skilled operators for new technology adoption. Advanced technologies have not been adopted because construction professionals are complacent with the current technologies. Amongst innovative safety gear, smart equipment tags and smart wrist wearables are the most favourable. This study presents new findings and sheds light into the local practice of the construction professionals in Malaysia in the SPT drilling works. This study provides an insight for Malaysian construction industry to develop a strategy in improving the efficiency and safety of SPT drilling works through adoption of innovative technologies. Technology driven safety hazard mitigation may boost Malaysian Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) industry and in doing so will increase TVET operators to be trained and certified.
Calculation of Proper Time of Concentration for Drainage Design in Construction Projects for Urban Development
Authors: Al-Mamun Abdullah , Legori Binti Ibrahim Saerahany , Irwan Masbah Dani , Ibrahim Daud Jamal , Khan E.M. Yahya Khan Nasehir
Published: January 2024

The design and construction of a proper drainage system are important for any urban development project, small or big. Hydrological and hydraulic calculations are used to design the drainage systems. The calculation of peak flow is one of the common hydrological methods applied to determine the drain sizes for all construction projects. Peak flows and hydrographs can be calculated using several techniques. In order to calculate the peak flow, the design rainfall duration has to be appropriate, which will reflect the critical storm duration. The critical storm duration, on the other hand, depends on the time of concentration (tc) of the catchment. However, most of the equations for tc available in the literature are empirical. At least 23 equations could be traced in various references, which consist of different geophysical and other hydrological parameters. This paper is intended to explain the importance of the proper use of tc to calculate peak runoff flow for construction projects, as accurately as possible. A review of the existing methods used to calculate the time of concentration revealed inconsistencies among a few methods found in the literature. The correct value of the time of concentration (tc) is important for the application of the Rational Method, as the value of tc helps the designer assume the storm duration critical to get the maximum peak flow value. If the critical storm duration is not used in the Rational Method, the drain will be undersized, and the overflow of the storm runoff may happen. Therefore, ample attention should be given to the calculation of the time of concentration to ensure the safety, economy, and sustainability of the drainage system in any development project.
Response Surface Methodology Approaches in Producing Amorphous Silica from Rice Straw Ash
Authors: Jamaluddin Aida , Saad S.A. , Masjuki S.A. , W.N.F. Wan Hassan  , Che Deraman S.N. , Hussain N. Md. Yusof
Published: January 2024

A large amount of rice straw is produced as crop residue from rice production as an underutilization waste material. The open burning of rice straw can lead to environmental pollution by forming an abundant amount of rice straw ash (RSA) and exposing harmful gases to the atmosphere. Thus, RSA can be used as a cement replacement material due to its high amount of silica. Silica is a helpful additive to cement mix by accelerating the hydration process of cement because of its high reactivity and improving mortar performance. This study focuses amount of high silica of RSA in modified concrete through thermochemical pretreatment via response surface methodology (RSM). The factors involved in the pretreatment of RSA are 0.01M – 0.1M HCl hydrochloric acid, 1 – 3 hours soaking duration, and 60 - 80℃ soaking temperature, and a response is the percentage of reactive compound content (SiO2, Al2O3, and Fe2O3). Therefore, central composite design (CCD) in the RSM and the analysis of variance (ANOVA) have been used to evaluate the interaction between the factors and response, then simulated and further assess the accuracy of the model to achieve the accurate prediction. As a result, RSM observed that the optimum silica amount in the treated RSA (98.34%) was produced using parameters of 0.06 M HCl, 2 hours of soaking duration, and 70℃ soaking temperature in the pretreatment process. After that, it is followed by a burning process at a controlled temperature and a grinding process to produce treated RSA. The prediction given by the RSM was not the sole result but was proved through X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) analysis. The result of XRF analysis obtained for each model with the same value of each factor (HCl concentration = 0.06 M, soaking duration = 2 hours, and soaking temperature = 70℃) is more than 97.00% and falls between the prediction index range. Thus, the model is validated since the actual experimental result is within the expected range for any involved factor. Hence, the treated RSA was considered a high-quality pozzolanic material incorporated in the mortar production.