Search Results (51)

For the greater part of entrepreneurial history, entrepreneurship’s primary target was commercial, i.e., money generation for the entrepreneur and his or her stakeholders. However, starting in the 1980s, hybrid forms of entrepreneurship fusing the creation of non-financial value with entrepreneurial means have gained traction. Currently, several conceptually different forms, e.g., social, environmental, and community entrepreneurship, exist. Research yields various differences comparing commercial and hybrid entrepreneurship, particularly in the stereotypical perceptions of different entrepreneurs. Notwithstanding notable insights, entrepreneurial stereotype research suffers from three major shortcomings. First, stereotype differences are primarily examined by comparing commercial to hybrid entrepreneurs, neglecting stereotype differences inside hybrid entrepreneurship. Second, the scope of stereotypes investigated (e.g., warmth and competence) remains vague and lacks entrepreneurial specificity. Third, the robustness of entrepreneurial stereotypes under different institutional circumstances, e.g., in economy and culture, is unclear. The current study addresses these three shortcomings. Analyzing two samples from Kenya and Germany (N_total = 286) with repeated-measures analyses of co-variance, we find notable stereotype differences (i) inside hybrid entrepreneurs; (ii) regarding warmth, competence, and entrepreneurship-specific success indicators; and (iii) under different institutional circumstances. Despite acknowledgeable limitations, our work extends previous stereotype research by highlighting the necessity for a more fine-grained, specific, and inter-country perspective on entrepreneurial stereotypes. Full article

Background: Non/low-caloric artificial sweeteners (NAS) are recognized as chemical additives substituting sugars to avoid caloric intake and subsequent sugar-derived diseases such as diabetes and hyperglycemia. Six NAS have been claimed safe and are authorized by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for public use, with acceptable daily intake information available: aspartame, acesulfame-K, saccharin, sucralose, neotame, and advantame. However, the impacts of NAS on the gut microbiome have raised potential concerns, since sporadic research revealed NAS-induced microbial changes in the gastrointestinal tracts and alterations in the microbiome–host interactive metabolism. Methods: Given the fact that the gut microbiome influences kaleidoscopic physiological functions in host health, this review aimed to decipher the impacts of NAS on the gut microbiome by implementing a comprehensive two-stage literature analysis based on each NAS. Results: This review documented disturbed microbiomes due to NAS exposure to a maximal resolution of species level using taxonomic clustering analysis, and recorded metabolism alterations involved in gut microbiome–host interactions. Conclusions: The results elucidated that specific NAS exhibited discrepant impacts on the gut microbiome, even though overlapping on the genera and species were identified. Some NAS caused glucose tolerance impairment in the host, but the key metabolites and their underlying mechanisms were different. Furthermore, this review embodied the challenges and future directions of current NAS–gut microbiome research to inspire advanced examination of the NAS exposure–gut microbiome–host metabolism axis. Full article

Dynamic optical structural color is always desired in various display applications and usually involves active materials. Full-color generation, especially bi-directional full-color generation in both reflective and transmissive modes, without any active materials included, has rarely been investigated. Herein, we demonstrate a scheme of bi-directional full-color generation based on a plasmonic metasurface modulated by the rotation of the polarization angle of the incident light without varying the geometry and the optical properties of the materials and the environment where the metasurface resides. The metasurface unit cell consists of plasmonic modules aligning in three directions and is patterned in a square array. The metasurface structural color device is numerically confirmed to generate full colors in both reflection and transmission. Based on the proposed polarization-dependent structural color, the information encoding process is demonstrated for three multiplexed animal images and quick-responsive (QR) codes to verify the efficient information encoding and decoding of the proposed scheme. In the simulation, the animals can be seen under different polarization incidences, and the QR codes can be successfully decoded by the polarization rotation in transmission. The proposed bi-directional full-color generation metasurface has great potential in applications such as kaleidoscope generation, anti-counterfeiting, dynamic color display, and optical information encoding. Full article

Coffea canephora, or Robusta, plays an important role in the Italian coffee scene, particularly in the preparation of espresso, contributing to the coffee’s intense flavor and rich crema. But why do Italians prefer this type of coffee? Why does this preference not emerge in the same way in neighboring countries such as Germany, France, Austria, and even Spain? And why are there so many differences in coffee tastes among regions within Italy? The northern part of the country prefers lighter and longer coffees with a major presence of Arabica, while southern regions prefer shorter and darker coffees with a larger presence of Robusta. This kaleidoscopic coffee culture traces back to historical events linked to the introduction of coffee beans in Italy and to its varied regional landscape. Within the folds of history lie the origins that have shaped the Italian coffee identity. This journey presents an intriguing case study. Full article

Gene expression alterations in postmortem schizophrenia tissue are well-documented and are influenced by genetic, medication, and epigenetic factors. The Wingless/Integrated (WNT) signaling pathway, critical for cell growth and development, is involved in various cellular processes including neurodevelopment and synaptic plasticity. Despite its importance, WNT signaling remains understudied in schizophrenia, a disorder characterized by metabolic and bioenergetic defects in cortical regions. In this study, we examined the gene expression of 10 key WNT signaling pathway transcripts: IQGAP1, CTNNβ1, GSK3β, FOXO1, LRP6, MGEA5, TCF4, βTRC, PPP1Cβ, and DVL2 in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) using postmortem tissue from schizophrenia subjects (n = 20, 10 males, 10 females) compared to age, pH, and postmortem interval (PMI)-matched controls (n = 20, 10 males, 10 females). Employing the R-shiny application Kaleidoscope, we conducted in silico “lookup” studies from published transcriptomic datasets to examine cell- and region-level expression of these WNT genes. In addition, we investigated the impact of antipsychotics on the mRNA expression of the WNT genes of interest in rodent brain transcriptomic datasets. Our findings revealed no significant changes in region-level WNT transcript expression; however, analyses of previously published cell-level datasets indicated alterations in WNT transcript expression and antipsychotic-specific modulation of certain genes. These results suggest that WNT signaling transcripts may be variably expressed at the cellular level and influenced by antipsychotic treatment, providing novel insights into the role of WNT signaling in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Full article

Embark on a journey into the captivating world of Biomolecular Interactions and Networks with this innovative review, where science meets artistry. Our exploration transcends traditional boundaries, weaving together the rhythmic dance of protein–protein interactions, the dynamic melodies of signaling pathways, and the harmonious integration of omics data. In this entrancing introduction, we cast a spotlight on the grand stage where biomolecular interactions unfold, emphasizing their role as the orchestrators of cellular symphonies. We invite readers to join us on this vibrant expedition, celebrating the intricacies that shape life at the molecular level. Our methodological voyage is nothing short of groundbreaking. Imagine peering into the secret conversations of proteins through avant-garde techniques like yeast two-hybrid screens and mass spectrometry, unveiling a kaleidoscope of connections. Visualize the heartbeat of cells captured in real-time with cutting-edge live-cell imaging, and witness the integration of omics data as we decipher the code of cellular communication through computational masterpieces. The stage is set, and the results are a breathtaking fusion of science and art. Recent revelations paint a vivid canvas of protein–protein interactions, each stroke revealing a new chapter in the biomolecular narrative. Live-cell imaging adds dynamic hues to our understanding of signaling pathways, while the integration of omics data unfolds intricate networks reminiscent of a cosmic tapestry. As the curtains fall, we arrive at a crescendo of knowledge. This review not only encapsulates the current state of Biomolecular Interactions and Networks but also propels us into the future of collaborative discovery. Join us in decoding the symphony of life, where the language of cells becomes a universal melody with transformative potential for both scientific understanding and targeted therapeutic innovations. Full article

Typically, scholars view/read the enigmatic apostle Paul monolithically—that is, through either a Greco-Roman or Jewish socio-cultural lens. The traditional Lutheran (Greco-Roman/Western) lens was criticized in the mid-/late-twentieth century by scholars highlighting Paul’s Jewishness—resulting in the so-called “New Perspective on Paul” and “Paul within Judaism” movements. This paradigmatic post-Shoah shift of Pauline interpretation begs the questions, “Should we abandon Greco-Roman readings of Paul?” and “Should we continue to read Philippians and Paul through a singular (Jewish) lens?” Building upon the work of Markus Bockmuehl, Abraham Malherbe et al., I argue for an “eclectic and pragmatic” approach. I explain how “monocular” (Greco-Roman or Jewish) and even “binocular” (Greco-Roman and Jewish) approaches flatten Paul’s complex thought world and Sitz im Leben as an in-Christ church-planting missionary. The purpose of this study is to read Philippians and Paul “kaleidoscopically”—considering the distinct Romanitas, juxtaposed and colliding cultures, worldviews, and religions that Paul likely encountered in the cosmopolitan colonia of first-century Philippi. This article transcends the Greco-Roman/Jewish debate surrounding Paul—highlighting the literary and archaeological evidence of competing pagan, Jewish, and Pauline Christ cults in first-century Philippi—and thus encouraging scholars to read Philippians and Paul through a “kaleidoscopic” rather than a monolithic lens. Full article

The objective of this article is to present Latin American and Caribbean Ecotheology under the evocative image of a kaleidoscope, in which fragments are combined into a kind of mosaic, suggesting different visualizations. Firstly, a discussion is presented on the relationship between Ecotheology and Liberation Theology, as well as the assumptions of an Ecotheological praxis embodied in the spatio-temporal reality of the continent. The article will emphasize that a kaleidoscopic understanding of ecology—understood as science, paradigm and ethos—reimagines the function and tasks of Latin American and Caribbean Ecotheology. This, in dialogue with environmental sciences and operating a virtuous circularity between academic production and pastoral action, is constituted as theory, practice and spirituality. We emphasize the common elements of Ecotheology and will not dwell on different trends and emphases. We will identify some limits and challenges in this process, without intending to provide an exhaustive analysis. Our aim is to establish reciprocal learning dialogues with Ecotheologies from other latitudes and cultures, and thus effectively contribute to the culture of caring for life on the planet. Full article

The Haredi community in Israel is the youngest community. It grows at a higher rate than that of the Arab population in Israel. The calls to introduce more secular education are motivated by both a desire to acculturate the Haredi population and bring it closer to the norms and values of the Israeli discourse and from a wish to integrate more people from this community into the job market. Calls to introduce more secular education in the Haredi system have seen constant resistance that has been documented in scholarship. In the U.S., the discussion on the correct role of general education started with a different frame of reference. The existence of meaningful religious education was put into question, and only after the holocaust did American Orthodoxy significantly expand its educational options. This text will describe the diverse spectrum of Haredi educational institutions and their approaches to secular education. I am using Monsey as a test case since it is a good representation of the kaleidoscope of Orthodoxy in the U.S., as far as the different communities are concerned. It is also a very decentralized community, since there is no dominant group in Monsey. This fact allows for more initiatives, including educational initiatives, to be undertaken. Full article

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the rise of global sustainability science have led to the increasing recognition of basins as the key natural geographical units for human–land system coupling and spatial coordinated development. The effective measurement of spatiotemporal patterns of urban connectivity within a basin has become a key issue in achieving basin-related SDGs. Meanwhile, China has been actively working toward co-ordinated regional development through in-depth implementation of the Yellow River Basin’s ecological protection and high-quality development. Urban connectivity has been trending in urban planning, and significant progress has been made on different scales according to the flow space theory. Nevertheless, few studies have been conducted on the multiscale spatiotemporal patterns of urban agglomeration connectivity. In this study, the urban network in the Yellow River Basin was constructed using Tencent population migration data from 2015 and 2019. It was then divided into seven distinct communities to enable analysis at both the basin and community scales. Centrality, symmetry, and polycentricity indices were employed, and the multiscale spatiotemporal patterns of urban agglomerations in the Yellow River Basin were identified using community detection, complex networks, and the migration kaleidoscope method. Community connectivity was notably concentrated at the basin scale with a centripetal pattern and spatial heterogeneity. Additionally, there was a symmetrical and co-ordinated relationship in population migration between the eastern and western regions of the basin, as well as between the internal and external parts of the basin. At the community scale, there was significant variation in the extent of central agglomeration among different communities, with few instances of similar-level, long-distance, and interregional bilateral links. The utilization of multiscale spatiotemporal patterns has the potential to enhance the comprehension of economic cooperation between various cities and urban agglomerations. This understanding can aid decision-makers in formulating sustainable development policies that foster the spatial integration of the basin. Full article

This article seeks to integrate the “Indian swami” with the “global guru” and reflects upon why Vivekananda’s teaching was conveyed so differently to different audiences. It argues that Vivekananda’s distinctive form of “counter-preaching” had its roots in Adhikari-bheda, a tradition that seeks to tailor spiritual instruction to the needs and capacities of individual aspirants. I will show how he applied this technique to larger audiences because he believed that “truth” had a relative dimension that had to account for cultural difference. I investigate how instruction in Hindu “man-making” and spiritual democracy in India was matched by lessons designed to counter “muscular Christianity” in Euro-America. Vivekananda wanted both to reinforce a vision of eastern wisdom and counter western (and at times Indian) prejudices, whilst also attempting to shift entrenched but fallacious generalizations in each arena. In working within this seeming contradiction, I will show how his nationalism and universalism were inextricable, and also tied to his innovative formulations of Advaita Vedanta, karma yoga, and especially “practical Vedanta”. I will conclude by explaining how his methods generally sought to pull his audiences away from extremes. The kaleidoscopic qualities of his teachings, I will suggest, explain why his legacy has been so variously deployed by both the right and left in contemporary Indian political culture. Full article

Keratins are a family of intermediate filament-forming proteins highly specific to epithelial cells. A combination of expressed keratin genes is a defining property of the epithelium belonging to a certain type, organ/tissue, cell differentiation potential, and at normal or pathological conditions. In a variety of processes such as differentiation and maturation, as well as during acute or chronic injury and malignant transformation, keratin expression undergoes switching: an initial keratin profile changes accordingly to changed cell functions and location within a tissue as well as other parameters of cellular phenotype and physiology. Tight control of keratin expression implies the presence of complex regulatory landscapes within the keratin gene loci. Here, we highlight patterns of keratin expression in different biological conditions and summarize disparate data on mechanisms controlling keratin expression at the level of genomic regulatory elements, transcription factors (TFs), and chromatin spatial structure. Full article

We investigate some of the fundamental features of the interaction of a mixture of coherent states, namely, a Kaleidoscope states mixture, with two-level atoms in the Jaynes–Cummings model framework. We begin our analysis by calculating the von Neumann entropy of the field, which is determined with the help of the virtual atom method. The oscillations appearing in the entropy indicate a state of purity greater than the initial state, i.e., a purification of the initial state due to a transfer of coherence from the atom to the field. In this oscillatory region, we obtain a negative Wigner function that hints at a (noisy) multiple Schrödinger cat. Full article

Young people and students, in particular, have often been presented as being particularly affected by the health crisis and its various psychological, social, and economic consequences. In this context, the present study sought to better understand the links between the anxiety generated by this crisis regarding one’s professional future, the resources available, and future career expectations. A total of 585 higher education students participated in the study during the third lockdown in France and completed a questionnaire that focused on anxiety and apprehension about the future, psychological and adaptative resources, and preferences for dimensions of new careers (kaleidoscopic, sustainable, protean, boundaryless, and opportunistic). The results show, on the one hand, significant links between anxiety, optimism, hope, career adaptability and preferences expressed for dimensions of new careers; on the other hand, dimensions that are more preferred than others. Finally, these results will be discussed in relation to the correlations already highlighted in the literature between individuals and career expectations, and to the more global reflection on the future of work. Possible avenues in the field of career counselling will be proposed. Full article

Father André Scrima is one of the most enigmatic figures of the Romanian Orthodox Church. Everything related to him passes as extraordinary. He was an exception among the Romanian intellectuals who suffered under communism. Beyond that, his journeys and spiritual experiences possess something indescribable, almost sacramental. His presence overwhelmed those who met him and his writings retained this trait. The present study focuses on Scrima’s Christology, highlighting its uniqueness and its practical implications. Although Scrima does not dedicate a book to the subject, all of his writings refer to it. However, due to his distinctiveness, it is difficult to organize his Christology in a systematic way. The most lucrative approach is to group his texts along the hermeneutical moments that define his writing: images, stories and stances. In Scrima’s logic, all words/signs are the very synthesis of a spiritual experience, all stories develop the theological synthesis of the signs, and the relation between the stories forms the tradition as a set of interrogations and communitarian commitments. If we evaluate Scrima’s Christology in this manner, we do not come to a system, but to a succession of images. The core of these images remains the same, Jesus Christ, yet it is seen in nuances that unveil His beauty—Stranger, Gate, Logos, Name above all names—, in an unpredictable play of perspectives. It can be said that Scrima’s approach resembles a kaleidoscope, which, by using mirrors and light, gives an insight to the unsuspected possibilities of all fixed forms. Full article