Historical Connections Research Articles

Exploring cannabidiol variations, investigation of genetic diversity, population structure and unveiling male-specific genetic marker in industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.)

AbstractCannabis sativa played a pivotal role across different industries. Recently, industrial hemp, particularly in the case of Cannabidiol (CBD), gained attention for its therapeutic potential. This study evaluated cannabinoid variability and genetic diversity within 43 industrial hemp individuals, primarily Turkish, across various plant parts and growth stages, and inflorescences of females showed significant CBD content. The highest contents were observed in Turkish landraces (0.55–8.05% with an average of 3.26%), making them valuable genetic resources for high CBD. Genetic structure revealed distinct populations based on gender and influenced by geographical origin. Analysis of Molecular Variance showed 92% of genetic variation observed within populations and indicated a promising source of novel allelic diversity in the Turkish gene pool. Turkish females showed significant genetic diversity [No. of Different Alleles (Na) 1.507, No. of Effective Alleles (Ne) 1.226, Shannon’s Information Index (I) 0.258, and Percentage of Polymorphic Loc (%P) 74.91], exhibiting richer genetic variation than their international peers. Principal Coordinate Analysis unveiled gender-specific genetic differences, and admixture clusters shed light on genetic interactions and historical connections among diverse populations. Unweighted Pair-Group Method with Arithmetic Averaging highlighted unique genetic profiles and distinct genetic lineages. Genome-wide association study revealed a highly significant male-specific genetic marker explained 50% of the phenotypic variation. These findings inform future breeding strategies and conservation efforts and contribute to varietal identification methods, Marker-Assisted Selection, and efficient cultivar development in upcoming programs.

Population structure and genetic diversity of false killer whales (Pseudorca crassidens) in New Zealand waters: preliminary results

ABSTRACT False killer whales (Pseudorca crassidens) are globally distributed cetaceans, often found in deep oceanic waters but occasionally near coastlines. Despite their broad distribution, information on their abundance, genetics, and ecology remains limited. In New Zealand waters, these whales occur year-round, with increased sightings during the warmer months due to the East Auckland Current. This study investigates the genetic diversity and population structure of New Zealand false killer whales using 17 samples collected from 2005 to 2018 in four locations, comparing them to global studies. New Zealand samples revealed four unique haplotypes with low genetic diversity (h = 0.42 ± 0.141; π = 0.29%± 0.002). No genetic differentiation was observed between South Pacific and New Zealand populations (FST = 0.05 p = 0.1602 Φ ST = 0.058 p = 0.145). These findings suggest low genetic diversity for New Zealand false killer whales, but within values expected for other cetaceans with matrilineal social structures. The presence of shared haplotypes suggests potential historical or ongoing connections with wider Pacific populations. However, further research is needed due to the short mtDNA-CR fragment analysed and small sample size, which may have resulted in an inability to capture the full extent of the genetic variation. This study contributes to our understanding of this species and its conservation within New Zealand.

Art, science and inclusion: multisensory Sciart of immunology for blind, low-vision and diverse-needs audiences.

Art is a powerful tool for conveying scientific discovery. Despite the perceived gap between art and science, as highlighted by CP Snow and others, examples of art communicating science can be found in the ancient world, the Renaissance and contemporary data visualization, demonstrating an enduring and historic connection. However, much of science relies on visual elements, excluding those with blindness, low vision and diverse needs, resulting in their low representation in STEM discourse. This paper introduces a novel science and art collaboration in the form of an exhibition program exploring the concepts of Immunology and Biomedicine to blind and vision-impaired audiences, capitalizing on the lived experience of a legally blind artist. Employing multisensory design, art and co-creation methodologies, it transcends traditional vision-based science communication, showcasing the potential for multisensory art to bridge the gap at the intersection of science and inclusion.

Effects of past riverine connectivity on the population structure and species distribution of ‘Geophagus’ brasiliensis (Cichlidae) complex in a Neotropical hotspot

Abstract Once fishes and rivers are intrinsically connected, historical events such as river captures and the reconfiguration of palaeodrainages affect population structure and species distribution. However, direct evidence of these events remains limited. We aimed to directly infer putative connections between adjacent river basins to understand genetic and geographical patterns in populations and species of the ‘Geophagus’ brasiliensis complex. For that, we analysed 174 sequences of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) from five species along 35 sites within and near a coastal basin in northeastern Brazil. Based on haplotype network, palaeodrainage reconstruction, geological inferences of river captures and analyses of molecular variance (AMOVAs), we tested how the genetic structure could be associated with variable patterns of habitat connectivity through time. In general, high levels of genetic variation were identified, including shared haplotypes among drainages for most species. AMOVA suggested that drainage rearrangements between adjacent basins were the main drivers of genetic diversification in the ‘G.’ brasiliensis complex. Our study refuted dispersal routes via the continental shelf, whereas eight putative river captures suggested historical connections that enabled gene flow among drainages until recent interruption. These results provide novel insights on the role of riverscape evolution on the biogeography of neotropical ichthyofauna.

Personalization above anonymization? A role for considering the humanity and spirituality of the dead in anatomical education.

Clinical anatomy education is meant to prepare students for caring for the living, often by working with the dead. By their nature many clinical anatomy education programs privilege topographical form over the donor's humanity. This inbalance between the living and the dead generates tensions between the tangible and the spiritual insofar as semblances of the humanity of donors endure even in depictions and derivatives. This article argues that considering the relevance of spirituality, and what endures of a donor's humanity after death, would enhance contemporary anatomy education and the ethical treatment of human body donors (and derivatives). In developing this argument, we (the authors) address the historical connection between spirituality and anatomy, including the anatomical locations of the soul. This serves as a basis for examining the role of the mimetic-or imitative-potential of deceased human donors as representations of the living. We deliberate on the ways in which the depersonalization and anonymization of those donating challenge themimetic purpose of human body donorsand the extent to which such practicesare misaligned with the health care shift from a biomedical to a biopsychosocial model. Weighing up the risks and opportunities of anonymization versus personalization of human body donors, we propose curricula that could serve to enhance the personalization of human donors to support students learning topographical form. In doing so, we argue that the personalization of human donors and depictions could prevent the ill effects of digital representations going "viral," and enhance opportunities for donors to help the general public learn more about the human form.

DNA barcoding reveals a new population of the threatened Atlantic Forest frog Sphaenorhynchus canga

Species identification plays a significant role in biodiversity conservation. As many species remain unrecognized, particularly in neotropical hotspots like the Brazilian Atlantic Forest (AF), novel molecular techniques are being widely employed to bridge this gap. In this study, we used DNA barcoding and phylogenetic tools to identify a new population of Sphaenorynchus canga in the central region of the Brazilian AF. Our results extend the species’ known distribution by approximately 200 km to the south, encompassing a different mountain range than its type locality (Serra do Espinhaço). This disjunct distribution, while not uncommon among amphibians, suggests a historical connection between these two mountain complexes as a biogeographic explanation. Despite the discovery of a new S. canga population, the species continues to face numerous anthropogenic threats such as mining, land use, and cattle ranching. Urgent conservation and research efforts are warranted to ensure the survival of S. canga populations across these habitats.

“To be faithful to ourselves, we pay a price”: Jane F. Gilgun’s journey as a feminist qualitative social work practice researcher

In 2021, Jane Frances Gilgun retired after nearly 40 years on the faculty at the University of Minnesota in Twin Cities, USA. This article—tracing a sliver of her rich intellectual biography—was crafted from a career interview conducted for by Debra Nelson-Gardell for QSW, in four sessions, between December 2021 and March 2022. Gilgun is known for her extensive writing on qualitative methodology in social work and its connection to the Chicago School as well as her decades-long feminist investigation of male violence. Starting from an ontological worldview in the inherent goodness of humankind, Gilgun seeks to explain deviations from that path. She has spent a lifetime at the intersecting seams of gender, violence, and abuse of power. Gilgun’s career offers lessons for a next generation. Her work reminds us of the importance of the deep historical connections between qualitative social work and the Chicago School. It illustrates the time and dedication required to seriously investigate difficult topics using qualitative methodologies. It offers a bittersweet reminder that choosing the path less traveled—or resisting dominant views in the academy—can be a solitary experience but that building intentional communities of like-minded souls serves as a protective factor. Finally, Gilgun’s career embodies the idea that serious research agendas are animated by large and important questions. Her scholarship has grappled head-on with the basic philosophical question of how evil can exist in a world rooted in goodness.

An Overview of the Free Energy Principle and Related Research.

The free energy principle and its corollary, the active inference framework, serve as theoretical foundations in the domain of neuroscience, explaining the genesis of intelligent behavior. This principle states that the processes of perception, learning, and decision making-within an agent-are all driven by the objective of "minimizing free energy," evincing the following behaviors: learning and employing a generative model of the environment to interpret observations, thereby achieving perception, and selecting actions to maintain a stable preferred state and minimize the uncertainty about the environment, thereby achieving decision making. This fundamental principle can be used to explain how the brain processes perceptual information, learns about the environment, and selects actions. Two pivotal tenets are that the agent employs a generative model for perception and planning and that interaction with the world (and other agents) enhances the performance of the generative model and augments perception. With the evolution of control theory and deep learning tools, agents based on the FEP have been instantiated in various ways across different domains, guiding the design of a multitude of generative models and decision-making algorithms. This letter first introduces the basic concepts of the FEP, followed by its historical development and connections with other theories of intelligence, and then delves into the specific application of the FEP to perception and decision making, encompassing both low-dimensional simple situations and high-dimensional complex situations. It compares the FEP with model-based reinforcement learning to show that the FEP provides a better objective function. We illustrate this using numerical studies of Dreamer3 by adding expected information gain into the standard objective function. In a complementary fashion, existing reinforcement learning, and deep learning algorithms can also help implement the FEP-based agents. Finally, we discuss the various capabilities that agents need to possess in complex environments and state that the FEP can aid agents in acquiring these capabilities.

Ethnic Dynamics in Northern Senatorial Zone, Taraba State, Nigeria: An Inter-Group Perspective

This paper, titled "Inter-Group Relations and Peace in the Northern Senatorial Zone, Taraba State, Nigeria: A Study of Ethnic Dynamics," explores the relationships among diverse ethnic groups in Taraba State's Northern Senatorial Zone. Utilizing qualitative methods, particularly a narrative research design, the study delves into the dynamics of coexistence and tensions among ethnic groups, with a focus on indigenous communities such as the Fulbe, Hausa, Jenjo, Mumye, Wurkun, and others. Data collection involved interviews, participatory observations, and contextual analysis of documentary sources.The findings underscore the rich cultural diversity of Taraba State, where Traditional religions, Islam, and Christianity coexist within localities, deeply rooted in family identities. Historical connections among ethnic groups, characterized by peaceful coexistence, have been disrupted since the creation of Taraba State, leading to ethno-religious conflicts influenced by factors such as ethnic superiority, religious sentiments, and economic disparities. Challenges identified encompass disunity, power struggles, ethnic identity concerns, and unfavorable government policies, revealing the intricate nature of inter-group relations in the zone. Addressing these challenges necessitates collaborative efforts involving traditional, political, governmental, non-governmental, and religious entities. Recommendations to foster lasting harmony include increasing awareness and education, establishing dialogue platforms, promoting interfaith dialogue, empowering local communities, enhancing security measures, collaborating with NGOs, and conducting media sensitization campaigns to encourage responsible reporting and unity among diverse communities.

Can we assess whether Ukrainians flourish? The Ukrainian translation of the flourishing scale

The aim of this study was to translate the Flourishing Scale, which is a brief 8-item measure, into Ukrainian and examine its construct validity. The Flourishing Scale has been previously validated into various languages, including Russian. While Ukrainian is a distinct language with its unique characteristics, it shares some similarities with Russian due to historical and geographical connections. These similarities encompass words with similar or related meanings, comparable sentence structures, and certain cultural references and idiomatic expressions. Accordingly, the Ukrainian version of the Flourishing Scale was developed based on the Russian version. The translation process involved two proficient researchers fluent in Ukrainian, English, and Russian. Following the committee approach, one researcher conducted the initial translation, while the other ensured the accuracy and linguistic equivalence of the translated items. The eight items were pilot-tested with Ukrainian-speaking adult participants. Results from confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the Ukrainian version of the Flourishing Scale showed evidence of construct validity and reliability, thereby resulting in a tool that can be used with Ukrainian adults to further examine their flourishing.•The Flourishing Scale was translated into Ukrainian and pilot-tested to assess it psychometric properties.•Results indicated good construct validity and reliability of the Ukrainian version of the Flourishing Scale.

Utilising a multi-proxy to model comparison to constrain the season and regionally heterogeneous impacts of the Mt Samalas 1257 eruption

Abstract. The Mt Samalas eruption, thought to have occurred in summer 1257, ranks as one of the most explosive sulfur-rich eruptions of the Common Era. Despite recent convergence, several dates have been proposed for the eruption ranging between 1256–1258, with, as of yet, no single combination of evidence that has been able to robustly distinguish between and exclude the other dates proposed for the Mt Samalas eruption. Widespread surface cooling and hydroclimate perturbations following the eruption have been invoked as contributing to a host of 13th century social and economic crises, although regional-scale variability in the post-eruption climate response remains uncertain. In this study we run ensemble simulations using the UK Earth System Model (UKESM1) with a range of eruption scenarios and initial conditions in order to compare our simulations with the most complete globally resolved multi-proxy database for the Mt Samalas eruption to date, incorporating tree rings, ice cores, and historical records. This allows more precise constraints to be placed on the year and season of the Mt Samalas eruption, as well as an investigation into the regionally heterogeneous post-eruption climate response. Using a multi-proxy to model comparison, we are able to robustly distinguish between July 1257 and January 1258 eruption scenarios, where the July 1257 ensemble simulation achieves considerably better agreement with spatially averaged and regionally resolved proxy surface temperature reconstructions. These reconstructions suggest the onset of significant cooling across Asia and Europe in 1258 and thus support the plausibility of previously inferred historical connections. Model-simulated temperature anomalies also point to severe surface cooling across the Southern Hemisphere with as of yet unexplored historical implications for impacted civilisations. Model simulations of polar sulfate deposition also reveal distinct differences in the timing of ice sheet deposition between the two simulated eruption dates, although comparison of the magnitude or asymmetric deposition of sulfate aerosol remains limited by large inter-model differences and complex intra-model dependencies. Overall, the multi-proxy to model comparison employed in this study has strong potential in constraining similar uncertainties in eruption source parameters for other historical eruptions for which sufficient coincident proxy records are available, although care is needed to avoid the pitfalls of model–multi-proxy comparison.

Interwoven Legacies: Exploring the Rich Textile Traditions of Korea and Tamil Nadu (India) through Cross-Cultural Influences

This paper explores the textile traditions in Korea and Tamil Nadu, delving into their historical evolution, cultural significance, and cross-cultural influences. Korea, known for its deep-rooted traditions, and Tamil Nadu, celebrated for its ancient Dravidian culture, offer unique insights into the world of textiles. This research examines potential historical connections and cultural exchanges between these traditions. It also highlights shared elements in weaving techniques, materials, and symbolism. The study emphasizes the contemporary relevance of these traditions and the challenges and opportunities they face in a modern context. Ultimately, it unveils the intertwined legacies of Korean and Tamil Nadu textiles.

The relation between autism and psychosis: overlapping and differing features

IntroductionAutism spectrum disorders (ASD) and schizophrenia (SCZ) have a strong historic connection. At the beginning of the 20th century when referring to schizophrenic patients Eugen Bleuler used the term autism to describe the apparent withdrawal from the outside world. Other authors also emphasized the association between this two entities. In fact, only in DSM-III were these disorders placed in different diagnostic categories. Today, even though this nosological vision still prevails, a growing number of studies have shown significant overlaps between the two disorders. Patients with the diagnosis of ASD often experience psychotic symptoms and similarly schizophrenic patients have a high prevalence of autistic traits.ObjectivesTo clarify the distinction between ASD and psychotic disorders, namely to help the clinical and phenomenological distinction between patients with a primary psychotic disorder versus patients with the diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder that might also experience psychotic symptoms.MethodsResearch on UpToDate using the terms “Autism Spectrum Disorders”; “Schizophrenia” and “psychosis”.ResultsDelusional beliefs and paranoid ideation are common findings in autistic individuals in the same way that they constitute one of the main features of schizophrenia spectrum disorders. However, in ASD individuals one must be vigilant of its distinction with “childish fantasies”. Both disorders (ASD and SCZ spectrum disorders) share Theory of Mind (ToM) impairments that contribute to the development of paranoia.Sensory anomalies are common in ASD and might be confused with hallucinations. However, anomalous perceptual experiences can and do often happen in ASD and are clinically overlapping with hallucinatory phenomena. In the case of a neurodevelopment disorder, however, they could probably be better understood as a part of it more than the signal of a co-ocurring psychotic disorder. Attenuated psychotic symptoms pose an even more complex subject because of the overlap between autistic symptoms and subclinical psychotic symptoms. Another area that poses diagnostic difficulties has to do with the distinction between negative symptoms seen in schizophrenia and autistic symptoms. Lack of emotional reciprocity in ASD can be confused with “blunted” affect in schizophrenia.Other overlapping features between these two entities can be identified.ConclusionsThe diagnostic boundaries between ASD and SCZ are not always clear. Their overlapping characteristics and potential co-occurrence might pose important diagnostic challenges in clinical practice. The clinical course of both diseases frequently represents a key element for the differential diagnosis between autism and psychosis. The profound knowledge of these two entities is of extreme importance contributing to the implementation of more targeted and effective management strategies.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

The Influence of Soviet Law on the 1959 Vietnamese Constitution

The impact of the Soviet legal culture, particularly on Vietnam, within the socialist bloc, stands as a notable assertion. The incorporation of Soviet legal constructs into Vietnam’s legal framework emerged as a vital political necessity during a complex phase of Vietnam’s historical trajectory. Illustrated prominently in the 1959 Constitution of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, this influence embodies a quintessential manifestation of Soviet legal impact on Vietnam. This paper delves into several facets of this influence, encompassing the Constitutional structure, articulation of citizenship rights and duties, confirmation of the Vietnamese Labour Party (now the Communist Party of Vietnam) leadership, configuration of State apparatus and power distribution, formulation of socioeconomic order, and a departure from Western constitutional paradigms. The inquiry primarily draws upon historical and comparative legal methods. Legal records from Vietnam and the Soviet Union have been amassed, scrutinized, and likened. Moreover, this study considers the legal and interdisciplinary insights offered by scholars from Vietnam, the Soviet Union, Russia, and the Western sphere pertaining to the subject matter of this article. These perspectives are not only considered but also assessed and integrated. The outcomes of this examination serve to elucidate: i) the significance of Vietnam’s 1959 Constitution in the progression of Vietnam’s socialist legal system; ii) the historical connection and contemporary inheritance of shared legacies between the two national legal systems within the overarching socialist legal framework; and iii) valuable insights into incorporating socialist legal norms into the constitutional process.
 
 
 Tra từ & tra câu Anh - Việt, Việt - Anh, Anh - Anh
 
 
 
 
 
 Nhúng biểu tượng tra cứu vào trang
 Nhấp đúp để tra cứu
 
 
 

Continuity of traditions in the spiritual culture of turkic peoples in medieval states (according to Shajara-i Tarakime data)

The historical connections of Turkic peoples trace back to ancient times, extensively unfolding during the Middle Ages and subsequent eras. Throughout the entire medieval period, waves of people of Turkic origin came to lands that were once part of the Western empires. These tribes preserved a long history, traditions and skills on their way to their new homeland. They not only settled in their new lands, but also developed their culture, customs and skills in continuity with the world around them. This article is dedicated to the study of the interrelation of traditions in the spiritual culture of Turkic peoples based on oral historical traditions and legends in the work “Shajara-i-Tarakime”. We discuss the important aspects of forming the worldview foundations of Turkic-speaking peoples. Therefore, it is relevant to consider the problem of studying the ethnic identity of the early Turkic tribes in continuity with the study of ethno-political processes of the Middle Ages. The study of these historical events will not only help to more deeply reveal the issue of self-determination but will also allow for the identification of the formation of historical prerequisites for the beginning of economic, social, cultural, and political interaction of the Turkic peoples.

Spiritual Nexus: The Interwoven Sacred Sites of the Kailash Region

This article investigates the complex network of sacred sites within the Kailash region, an axis of profound spiritual significance for a multitude of faiths. The central figure of this sacred web is Mount Kailash, surrounded by the mystical Lake Manasarovar and Rakshas Tal, the restorative springs of Tirthapuri, and the reflective sanctuary of the Bon Monastery. This study delves into the spiritual importance, historical connections, and intricate cultural practices maintained across these sites. Darchen, the starting point for the spiritually charged Kailash Kora, marks the pilgrims' journey towards potential enlightenment. Moreover, the paper investigates the ecocultural dynamics, emphasizing the monasteries around Manasarovar, including the Bon Monastery, as enduring custodians of spiritual wisdom despite historical tribulations. Harnessing a variety of interdisciplinary perspectives, the article portrays how these sites collectively constitute a spiritual heritage that continually shapes the socio-religious fabric of the region. It also addresses modern challenges due to increased pilgrimage, advocating for sustainable conservation efforts. By intertwining the cosmic symbolism and earthly presence of these sites, this article contributes a holistic view of the Kailash region's perpetual sacredness and its essential place within the global spiritual domain.

The Interplay of Historical Foundations, Resource Dynamics, and Ideological Frameworks in the Shaping of Tanzania's Foreign Policy Landscape: Practicability of the Dependency Theory

This article analyzes three key variables - ideology, history, and resources - to get a deeper insight into the intricate dynamics shaping Tanzania's foreign policy. The research examines how the country's diplomatic environment is influenced by resource considerations, historical legacies, and ideological shifts within the framework of dependence theory. The findings from the survey show various perspectives on the influence of history, which is consistent with the emphasis of dependence theory on historical variables shaping foreign policy. The examination of resource contributions emphasizes the pressing necessity for policy reform, endorsing the suggestion of dependence theory for strategic resource utilization to reduce external constraints. Tanzania's strategic focus on developing economic partnerships outside of Western markets is evident in its ideological aspect. This is in line with the suggestion of dependency theory to reduce reliance on a certain set of trading partners in order to enhance the country's ability to navigate changing global economic trends. Key Informant Interviews support the study's theoretical framework and demonstrate the ongoing influence of historical personalities such as Julius Nyerere on Tanzania's foreign policy. The study's findings resulted in three significant recommendations. To establish diplomatic partnerships that honour past legacies while adapting to current geopolitical circumstances, it is advisable to take a sophisticated approach to historical connections. Implementing thorough policy change is recommended to strategically protect and utilize national resources in global contexts. Finally, it is recommended to take a proactive approach to diverse economic relationships in alignment with the broader pan-African objective of reducing dependence on specific trade partners. valuable guidance for decision-makers navigating the complex process of developing foreign policy.

The Syntax of the Jewish Arabic Dialect of Wad-Souf (Saharan Algeria)

Abstract Jewish dialects of Algerian Arabic remain terra incognita within Arabic dialectology. This paper addresses this lacuna and examines specific syntactic aspects within the critically endangered Jewish dialect of Wad-Souf. The study selectively focuses on the topics relevant to the ongoing discussions in the field of Arabic dialectology and the sub-field of Judaeo-Arabic. This research builds on my prior work concerning the phonology and morphology of Jewish Wad-Souf, emphasising linguistic traits that align with Bedouin dialects and showcasing historical connections to sedentary Jewish dialects. The article includes glossed text samples and analytical sections exploring noun, verb and pronoun syntax. While presenting tendencies rather than rigid rules, this research lays the groundwork for future studies on the Jewish dialect of Wad-Souf and on Algerian Judaeo-Arabic in general, forming a basis for a deeper understanding of its syntax and linguistic nuances. The data were obtained during three periods of fieldwork in Israel between March and December 2022.

Legal anomie as a factor in reducing effectiveness of law-making activities

The article investigates the issue of legal anomie through the prism of amendments to the current Russian legislation. It is noted that in critical situations of society development, such changes can be explained both by the need to regulate new social relations and by the development of anomie penetrating into the structure of public administration. The article analyzes characteristic of the subject of legislative initiative through manifestation of legal idealism. The method of comparing the number of amendments introduced to various regulations is applied, which allows to conclude that there is a frequent lack of consistency in legislator’s actions. It is noted that legislation concerning various spheres of legal regulation changes in different ways. Constitutional legislation is given as an example of rational amendments. It is concluded essential to move from periodic changes in the law to scientifically based legal reforms, within the framework of which the amendments to the law should be characterized by consistency and systematicity. The leading role in overcoming destructive processes in the development of domestic legislation is assigned to the Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation. It is concluded that the process of amending legislation and its dynamics has a certain historical connection with the development of legal anomie in society. The different activity in the development of new bills, which is characteristic of different participants in the legislative process, may indicate that the level of anomie is not the same in different authorities and at different levels of public administration. Particular attention is paid to consideration of the specifics of implementing the right of legislative initiative by the representative bodies of the constituents of the Russian Federation. The spread of legal anomie in the legislative process is one of the most dangerous phenomena in the legal system; it has the most destructive impact on the effectiveness of law enforcement and justice.

(Re-)invented Chan Lineage, Unique Vietnamese Meditation School, or Both? Thích Thanh Từ’s “Revived” Trúc Lâm Tradition of Thiền Tông

This study explores how images of the past have been deployed to set up current arrangements of leadership and institutional identity by considering the career and teachings of Thích Thanh Từ in connection with his “revived” Buddhist tradition in Vietnam. Promoted as a continuation of the unique and pure Vietnamese Buddhist meditation tradition and associated with the Vietnamese national identity, the contemporary Trúc Lâm (Bamboo Grove) is a pride of many Vietnamese Buddhists. The original Trúc Lâm is claimed to be founded by the heroic King-turned-monk Trần Nhân Tông in the thirteenth century. The tradition was supposedly transmitted through the next two generations and died out. In the twentieth century, a Southern Vietnamese monk, Thích Thanh Từ (1924–), who had quit Pure Land (Tịnh Độ, C. Jingtu 淨土) Buddhism to self-learn and practice meditation, decided to reinvent the medieval Trúc Lâm tradition and became the founder of the contemporary Trúc Lâm. Despite growing up during French colonization and American war, Thanh Từ was not politically involved; instead, he focused on setting up new monasteries, taught meditation, and discouraged his followers from political and social engagement. This paper examines how successful Thích Thanh Từ and his disciples are in popularizing Trúc Lâm in Vietnam, given that the majority of Vietnamese Buddhists follow Pure Land devotional practices. More importantly, it describes how Thích Thanh Từ combines the teachings attributed to Trần Nhân Tông and two Chinese Chan masters, Huike 慧可 (the Second Patriarch) and Huineng 惠能 (the Sixth Patriarch), to form Trúc Lâm’s philosophical views and meditation techniques. With the clear-cut distinction between the delusional mind of sentient beings and the perfect mind of enlightened beings, Thích Thanh Từ presents the goal of Trúc Lâm practice as attaining the state of no-thought and sharpening it to perfection to perceive the “buddha nature” (phật tính, S. buddhadhātu, C. foxing 佛性) understood as the pure mind of nonduality and nonform. Outlining that process, he emphasizes the importance of “sudden awakening” (đốn ngộ, C. dunwu 頓悟) followed by “gradual cultivation” (tiệm tu, C. jianxiu 漸修). His meditation manual for ordinary practitioners with no experience of sudden awakening contains key techniques of (1) stabilizing the mind by counting and then observing breaths, (2) recognizing the “true mind” (chân tâm, C. zhenxin 真心) through practicing “no abiding in thoughts” (biết vọng không theo), “no mind for the externals” (đối cảnh vô tâm), “no dualistic discrimination” (không kẹt hai bên), and then proceeding to the stage of permanently abiding in the nature of true mind. These meditation methods are pertinent to Trúc Lâm’s view that all phenomena that emerge via speculative thoughts are unreal and illusory, and that only the true mind is real. The first section of this paper explores historical connections between Vietnamese and Chinese forms of Buddhism, shedding light on why Trúc Lâm embraces Thiền Tông, which is transmitted from Chinese Chan zong, and how Thích Thanh Từ builds connections between Thiền Tông and the Vietnamese national identity. The second section focuses on Thích Thanh Từ’s own life story, on how he practiced meditation and suddenly experienced “unlearned wisdom” (trí vô sư/vô sư trí, C. wushi zhi 無師智, an alternative term for true mind and buddha nature as a result of his practice) and how he succeeded in spreading the “revived” Trúc Lâm. With the first two sections as a background, in the third section, this paper explores Thích Thanh Từ’s views and practices and critically analyzes those views and practices in the conclusion. Overall, I argue that Thích Thanh Từ’s instructions on meditation are closely intertwined with his view of reality, which in turn is based on the mainstream Chan zong ideas.