bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring road safety using alignment perspective features in real driving images: A case study on mountain freeways
Authors: He Shijian , Fu Hongmei , Wang Jie , Yang Jiacheng , Yao Yanqing , Kuang Jiaojiao , Xiao Xiangliang
Published: June 2024

Introduction

While driving, drivers frequently adapt their driving behaviors according to their perception of the road’s alignment features. However, traditional two-dimensional alignment methods lack the ability to capture these features from the driver’s perspective.

Method

This study introduces a novel method for road alignment recognition, employing image recognition technology to extract alignment perspective features, namely alignment perspective skewness (APS) and alignment perspective kurtosis (APK), from in-real driving images. Subsequently, the K-means clustering algorithm is utilized for road segment classification based on APS and APK indicators. Various sliding step length for clustering are employed, with step length ranging from 100m to 400m. Furthermore, the accident rates for different segment clusters are analyzed to explore the relationship between alignment perspective features and traffic safety. A 150 km mountain road section of the Erlianhaote-Guangzhou freewway from Huaiji to Sihui is selected as a case study.

Results

The results demonstrate that using alignment perspective features as classification criteria produces favorable clustering outcomes, with superior clustering performance achieved using shorter segment lengths and fewer cluster centers. The road segment classification based on alignment perspective features reveals notable differences in accident rates across categories; while traditional two-dimensional parameters-based classification methods fail to capture these differences. The most significant differences in accident rates across categories are observed with segment length of 100m, with the significance gradually diminishing as segment length increases and disappearing entirely when the length exceeds 300m.

Implication

These findings validate the reliability of using alignment perspective features (APS and APK) for road alignment classification and road safety analysis, providing valuable insights for road safety management.
Breast cancer in women by HIV status: A report from the South African National Cancer Registry
Authors: Davidović Maša , Dhokotera Tafadzwa , dos-Santos-Silva Isabel , Bohlius Julia , Sengayi-Muchengeti Mazvita
Published: June 2024

Background

Breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality in women living in South Africa, a country with a high HIV burden. However, characteristics of the double burden of HIV and BC in South Africa have not been properly investigated. We described characteristics of BC cases by HIV status in South Africa.

Methods

In this nationwide South African study, we obtained BC records for women aged ≥15 years diagnosed in the public health sector between January 2004 and December 2014. We included records from the National Cancer Registry that had been linked to HIV-related laboratory records from the National Health Laboratory Service. We assessed the odds of being HIV positive versus HIV negative in relation to patient-, cancer-, and municipality-related characteristics.

Results

From 2004–2014, 40 520 BC cases were diagnosed in women aged ≥15 years. Of these, 73.5% had unknown HIV status, 18.7% were HIV negative, and 7.7% were HIV positive. The median age at BC diagnosis was 43 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 37–52) in HIV positive and 57 years (IQR: 46–68) in HIV negative women, respectively. The odds of being HIV positive was higher for women who were aged 30–34 years compared to women aged 35–39 years at cancer diagnosis (odds ratio [OR] 1.38, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.10–1.71), Black versus non-Black (OR 6.41, 95% CI 5.68–7.23), diagnosed with cancer in rural versus urban areas (OR 1.59, 95% CI 1.40–1.82) and diagnosed in municipalities with low and middle (OR 3.46, 95% CI 2.48–4.82) versus high socioeconomic position (OR 2.69, 95% CI 2.11–3.42).

Conclusion

HIV status was unknown for the majority of BC patients. Among those with known HIV status, being HIV positive was associated with a younger age at cancer diagnosis, being Black and receiving care in municipalities of poor socioeconomic position. Future studies should examine opportunities to integrate HIV and BC control programs.
Carbon storage in rare ecosystems relative to their encroaching forests in western Lower Michigan
Authors: Megan Woller-Skar M. , Locher Alexandra , Audia Ellen M.
Published: June 2024

Rising atmospheric carbon dioxide levels are impacting global temperatures, ecological systems, and human societies. Natural carbon sequestration through the conservation of soil and native ecosystems may slow or reduce the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere, and thus slow or mitigate the rate of global warming. Most of the research investigating carbon sequestration in natural systems occurs in forested ecosystems, however rare ecosystems such as coastal plain marshes and wet-mesic sand prairie collectively may serve as significant carbon sinks. Our objectives were to measure and assess the importance of carbon sequestration in three rare ecosystems (oak-pine barrens, coastal plain marsh, and wet-mesic sand prairie) in western Lower Michigan. We measured carbon in standing vegetation, dead organic matter, and soils within each ecosystem and adjacent encroaching forested areas. Driven by tree carbon, total carbon stocks in encroaching areas were greater than in intact rare ecosystems. Soil organic carbon was greater in all intact ecosystems, though only significantly so in coastal plain marsh. Principal components analysis explained 72% of the variation and revealed differences between intact ecosystems and their encroaching areas. Linear models using the ratio of red to green light reflectance successfully predicted SOC in intact coastal plain marsh and wet-mesic sand prairie. Our results infer the importance of these rare ecosystems in sequestering carbon in soils and support the need to establish federal or state management practices for the conservation of these systems.
The effect of self-identified arm dominance on exercising forearm hemodynamics and skeletal muscle desaturation
Authors: Schwartz Jacob L. , Fongwoo Trishawna A. , Bentley Robert F.
Published: June 2024

The human forearm model is commonly employed in physiological investigations exploring local vascular function and oxygen delivery; however, the effect of arm dominance on exercising forearm hemodynamics and skeletal muscle oxygen saturation (SmO2) in untrained individuals is poorly understood. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the effect of self-identified arm dominance on forearm hemodynamics and SmO2 in untrained individuals during submaximal, non-ischemic forearm exercise. Twenty healthy individuals (23±4 years, 50% female; 80% right-handed) completed three-minute bouts of supine rhythmic (1 second contraction: 2 second relaxation duty cycle) forearm handgrip exercise at both absolute (10kg; 98N) and relative (30% of maximal voluntary contraction) intensities in each forearm. Beat-by-beat measures of forearm blood flow (FBF; ml/min), mean arterial blood pressure (MAP; mmHg) and flexor digitorum superficialis SmO2 (%) were obtained throughout and averaged during the final 30 seconds of rest, exercise, and recovery while forearm vascular conductance was calculated (FVC; ml/min/100mmHg). Data are Δ from rest (mean±SD). Absolute force production did not differ between non-dominant and dominant arms (97±11 vs. 98±13 N, p = 0.606) whereas relative force production in females did (69±24 vs. 82±25 N, p = 0.001). At both exercise intensities, FBFRELAX, FVCRELAX, MAPRELAX, and the time constant tau for FBF and SmO2 were unaffected by arm dominance (all p>0.05). While arm dominance did not influence SmO2 during absolute intensity exercise (p = 0.506), the non-dominant arm in females experienced an attenuated reduction in SmO2 during relative intensity exercise (-14±10 vs. -19±8%, p = 0.026)–though exercise intensity was also reduced (p = 0.001). The present investigation has demonstrated that arm dominance in untrained individuals does not impact forearm hemodynamics or SmO2 during handgrip exercise.
Forsythoside B alleviates cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury via inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome mediated by SIRT1 activation
Authors: Li Qiaoyu , Zhang Chongyang , Sun Xiao , Wang Mengchen , Zhang Zhixiu , Chen Rongchang , Sun Xiaobo
Published: June 2024

Background

The inflammatory response is a key factor in the pathogenesis of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury (CIRI), and anti-inflammatory interventions may offer a promising therapeutic strategy. Forsythoside B (FB) is a phenylethanoid glycoside isolated from Forsythiae fructus, which has been reported to have anti-inflammatory effects. However, the mechanism of the neuroprotective effect of FB on CIRI remains unclear.

Methods

Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to transient middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R). FB was administered intraperitoneally for 3 days prior to MCAO/R. Cerebral infarct volume and neurological deficit score were used as indices to evaluate MCAO/R injury. The serum levels of inflammatory factors and antioxidant enzymes were measured. The activation of silent information regulator 2 homolog 1 (Sirt1) and the inhibition of the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor with a pyrin domain 3 (NLRP3) pathway were assessed through western blot and immunohistochemistry analysis. Furthermore, the rats were treated with Sirt1 shRNA 3 days before MCAO/R by stereotactical injection into the ipsilateral hemispheric region to assess the impact of Sirt1 knockdown on the protection of FB during MCAO/R.

Results

FB reduced cerebral infarct volume and neurological deficit score in MCAO/R rats. FB reduced pathological changes and cell apoptosis in the hippocampal CA1 region and cortex on the ischemic side of rats. FB inhibited the serum levels of inflammatory factors and increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes. Further study showed that FB inhibited the activation of the NLRP3 pathway and induced Sirt1 activation.

Conclusion

FB demonstrated neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the NLRP3 pathway through Sirt1 activation in CIRI.
Research on risk assessment model and simulation of online group polarization in emergencies
Authors: Lu Guoqiang , Liu Fang
Published: June 2024

This study proposes a framework for the risk structure of group polarization in the online information of sudden public health incidents, as well as the causes and constraints of group polarization distributed in the ternary space. Then, combining the above two and based on the concept of phase change space, a simulation model of group polarization of online information in sudden public health incidents was constructed by reflecting the risk of group polarization with the number of network users who hold extreme views. The system dynamics simulation of the model is carried out by using the software Anylogic, and predict the evolution trend of the model from the perspective of simulation. The research results indicate that the model built in this study can effectively simulate the formation and dissemination of extreme opinions in the online public opinion of public health emergencies. The vital factors or constraints on the group polarization include emotional guidance, heat reduction, as well as and life pressure.
From global to national: The role of urban agglomerations in China’s new development paradigm
Authors: Gao Chang-chun , Chang Si-qi , Wang Ying-su
Published: June 2024

Urban agglomerations (UAs), which serve as pivotal hubs for economic and innovative convergence, play a crucial role in enhancing internal circulation and strengthening external linkages. This study utilizes the China city-level multi-regional input-output tables, incorporating the Dagum Gini coefficient and kernel density estimation methods, to perform a thorough quantitative analysis. Disparities within the national and global value chains ("dual value chains") of Chinese UAs from 2012 to 2017 were assessed. Additionally, the logarithmic mean Divisia index (LMDI) method was applied to disaggregate the drivers of both national and global intermediate inputs (NII and GII). The study’s key findings include the following: (1) The national value chain (NVC) within UAs exhibits robust growth, contrasting with the decline in the global value chain (GVC). (2) The inter-UA disparity contribution rate significantly surpasses the combined rates of intra-UA contribution and super-variation density. (3) Distinct evolutionary peak trends are discerned among various UAs within the "dual value chains", highlighting diverse spatial polarization characteristics and expansiveness. (4) The growth of the NVC has transitioned from a negative to a positive impact on NII, while the decline in GVC has substantially counteracted GII growth. Economic and demographic factors notably drive positive improvements in both NII and GII, whereas the efficiency of outflows presents a negative driving effect. Based on these findings, this study offers strategic recommendations to facilitate the effective integration of UAs into the new development paradigm, thereby providing a scientific basis for related decision-making processes.
Effects of empagliflozin on gonadal functions of hyperglycemic male wistar rats
Authors: Bdeir Roba , Al-Sawalha Nour A. , Al-Fawares O’la , Hamadeneh Lama , Khawaldeh Alia
Published: June 2024

Empagliflozin (EMPA) showed antiapoptotic, oxidative and anti-inflammatory potential effect. EMPA attenuates the inflammation and oxidative stress biomarkers in patients with heart failure while significantly decreases the malondialdehyde (a lipid peroxidation marker) levels in the plasma of diabetic patients. The present study examined the effects of moderate hyperglycemia on reproductive function. Sixty male Wister rats ‎ were divided and randomly allocated into four groups of 15 animals each‎‎. Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of a prepared solution containing STZ diluted in 0.1 M sodium citrate buffer (pH 4.5) at a dosage of 40 mg/kg body weight in selected in groups II and III for seven days before starting the treatment with EMPA. The current study revealed that EMPA for eight weeks prevented testicular high glucose-induced oxidative stress markers such as penile nitric oxide (NO), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and total anti-oxidant capacity (TAC) in STZ-induced hyperglycemia in a rat model. In addition, EMPA ameliorated the high levels of endogenous Interleukin-6 (IL-6) present in gonads in response to an acute inflammatory found in the hyperglycemic STZ-induced rats. The present study further suggested the protective effects of EMPA and how it has a beneficial role and can effectively attenuate hyperglycemia-induced testicular oxidative damage and inflammatory markers as well as androgen dependent testicular enzymes activity as a protective role against the consequences of hyperglycemia and male sub-infertility.
Comparison of DeNovix, NanoDrop and Qubit for DNA quantification and impurity detection of bacterial DNA extracts
Authors: Versmessen Nick , Van Simaey Leen , Negash Abel Abera , Vandekerckhove Marjolein , Hulpiau Paco , Vaneechoutte Mario , Cools Piet
Published: June 2024

Accurate DNA quantification is key for downstream application including library preparations for whole genome sequencing (WGS) and the quantification of standards for quantitative PCR. Two commonly used technologies for nucleic acid quantification are based on spectrometry, such as NanoDrop, and fluorometry, such as Qubit. The DS–11+ Series spectrophotometer/fluorometer (DeNovix) is a UV spectrophotometry-based instrument and is a relatively new spectrophotometric method but has not yet been compared to established platforms. Here, we compared three DNA quantification platforms, including two UV spectrophotometry-based techniques (DeNovix and NanoDrop) and one fluorometry-based approach (Qubit). We used genomic prokaryotic DNA extracted from Streptococcus pneumoniae using a Roche DNA extraction kit. We also evaluated purity assessment and effect of a single freeze-thaw cycle. Spectrophotometry-based methods reported 3 to 4-fold higher mean DNA concentrations compared to Qubit, both before and after freezing. The ratio of DNA concentrations assessed by spectrophotometry on the one hand, and Qubit on the other hand, was function of the A260/280. In case DNA was pure (A260/280 between 1.7 and 2.0), the ratio DeNovix or Nanodrop vs. Qubit was close or equal to 2, while this ratio showed an incline for DNA with increasing A260/280 values > 2.0. The A260/280 and A260/230 purity ratios exhibited negligible variation across spectrophotometric methods and freezing conditions. The comparison of DNA concentrations from before and after freezing revealed no statistically significant disparities for each technique. DeNovix exhibited the highest Spearman correlation coefficient (0.999), followed by NanoDrop (0.81), and Qubit (0.77). In summary, there is no difference between DeNovix and NanoDrop in estimated gDNA concentrations of S. pneumoniae, and the spectrophotometry methods estimated close or equal to 2 times higher concentrations compared to Qubit for pure DNA.
Exploring laser-induced acute and chronic retinal vein occlusion mouse models: Development, temporal in vivo imaging, and application perspectives
Authors: Xu Xiaowei , Li Xun , Tang Qingqing , Zhang Yi , Zhang Li , Zhang Meixia
Published: June 2024

Photodynamic venous occlusion is a commonly accepted method for establishing mouse models of retinal vein occlusion (RVO). However, existing model parameters do not distinguish between acute and chronic RVO subtypes. Large variations in laser energy seem to correlate with fluctuating retinopathy severity and high rates of venous recanalization during the acute phase, along with the variable levels of retinal perfusion during the chronic phase. After optimizing the modeling procedure and defining success and exclusion criteria, laser energy groups of 80mW, 100mW, and 120mW were established. Multimodal imaging confirmed that higher energy levels increased the incidence of retinal cystoid edema and intraretinal hemorrhage, exacerbated the severity of exudative retinal detachment, and reduced the venous recanalization rate. For the acute model, 100mW was considered an appropriate parameter for balancing moderate retinopathy and venous recanalization. Continuous imaging follow-up revealed that day 1 after RVO was the optimal observation point for peaking of retinal thickness and intensive occurrence of retinal cystic edema and intraretinal hemorrhage. After excluding the influence of venous recanalization on retinal thickness, acute retinal edema demonstrated a positive response to standard anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy, validating the clinical relevance of the acute RVO model for further study in pathogenic mechanisms and therapeutic efficacy. For the chronic model, the 120mW parameter with the lowest venous recanalization rate was applied, accompanied by an increase in both photocoagulation shots and range to ensure sustained vein occlusion. Imaging follow-up clarified non-ischemic retinopathy characterized by tortuosity and dilation of the distal end, branches, and adjacent veins of the occluded vein. These morphological changes are quantifiable and could be combined with electrophysiological functional assessment for treatment effectiveness evaluation. Moreover, the stable state of venous occlusion may facilitate investigations into response and compensation mechanisms under conditions of chronic retinal hypoperfusion.
Aplicação das boas práticas de gestão de estoques em uma microempresa de Santa Catarina
Authors: Carvalho Eric Costa , Mazzotti Madelon
Published: June 2024

O sucesso e a lucratividade de uma microempresa dependem de como será realizada a sua gestão, o seu planejamento e o controle das suas atividades. Entretanto o desafio de muitas microempresas é encontrar meios que as ajudem a realizar o planejamento e o controle de todas as atividades necessárias para o seu desenvolvimento, sendo o controle dos estoques um dos aspectos mais importantes para a gestão da empresa. Desta forma, a finalidade desta pesquisa é o desenvolvimento de uma ferramenta de gestão e controle de estoques para que a microempresa foco desse estudo, controlando as entradas e saídas do seu estoque e criando métricas para a compra de novos itens. Assim, esta pesquisa buscou compreender os aspectos que envolvem a gestão e o controle de estoques e a análise do processo utilizado para o desenvolvimento da empresa, com objetivo de desenvolver critérios como forma de embasamento na criação de uma ferramenta de controle de estoque. Dentre as diversas metodologias existentes para auxiliar no controle de estoques, utilizou-se como ferramentas permeadoras para o desenvolvimento da metodologia deste estudo as seguintes: Classificação e Codificação de Materiais; Curva ABC; e as técnicas de Previsão de Demanda e a determinação do Lote Econômico de Compra. Como resultado, implementou-se estratégias eficazes para otimizar a organização do estoque, e uma planilha dedicada à gestão e controle de saldos, entradas e saídas. Essa abordagem facilitou análises detalhadas, para identificação de demandas, planejamento estratégico de compras e vendas, resultando em melhoria na eficiência operacional.
Insulin reduces endoplasmic reticulum stress‐induced apoptosis by decreasing mitochondrial hyperpolarization and caspase‐12 in INS‐1 pancreatic β‐cells
Authors: Murata Nanako , Nishimura Kana , Harada Naoki , Kitakaze Tomoya , Yoshihara Eiji , Inui Hiroshi , Yamaji Ryoichi
Published: June 2024

Pancreatic β‐cell mass is a critical determinant of insulin secretion. Severe endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress causes β‐cell apoptosis; however, the mechanisms of progression and suppression are not yet fully understood. Here, we report that the autocrine/paracrine function of insulin reduces ER stress‐induced β‐cell apoptosis. Insulin reduced the ER‐stress inducer tunicamycin‐ and thapsigargin‐induced cell viability loss due to apoptosis in INS‐1 β‐cells. Moreover, the effect of insulin was greater than that of insulin‐like growth factor‐1 at physiologically relevant concentrations. Insulin did not attenuate the ER stress‐induced increase in unfolded protein response genes. ER stress did not induce cytochrome c release from mitochondria. Mitochondrial hyperpolarization was induced by ER stress and prevented by insulin. The protonophore/mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation uncoupler, but not the antioxidants N‐acetylcysteine and α‐tocopherol, exhibited potential cytoprotection during ER stress. Both procaspase‐12 and cleaved caspase‐12 levels increased under ER stress. The caspase‐12 inhibitor Z‐ATAD‐FMK decreased ER stress‐induced apoptosis. Caspase‐12 overexpression reduced cell viability, which was diminished in the presence of insulin. Insulin decreased caspase‐12 levels at the post‐translational stages. These results demonstrate that insulin protects against ER stress‐induced β‐cell apoptosis in this cell line. Furthermore, mitochondrial hyperpolarization and increased caspase‐12 levels are involved in ER stress‐induced and insulin‐suppressed β‐cell apoptosis.
Design of novel UPFC based damping controller for solar PV integrated power system using arithmetic optimization algorithm
Authors: Bohidar Sankalpa , Mallick Ranjan Kumar , Nayak Pravati , Mishra Sairam , Nahak Narayan , Panda Gayadhar , Gouda Pramod Kumar
Published: June 2024

Integrating renewable energy sources like solar power into traditional power systems poses challenges. One such challenge is the effect of renewable power plants, which use power electronics, on the grid’s stability. Specifically, these plants can impact small-signal stability by either damping or exacerbating low-frequency oscillations. This paper introduces a novel Unified Power Flow Controller (UPFC) based damping controller specifically designed for Solar Photovoltaic (PV) integrated power systems. It employs an Arithmetic Optimization Algorithm (AOA) to optimize the UPFC damping controller parameters and mitigate low-frequency oscillations in the power system. The objective function minimizes the Integral Time Absolute Error (ITAE) of speed deviations under varying loading conditions. The proposed technique is utilized simultaneously to control the modulation index of series and phase angle of shunt converters of UPFC. The MATLAB/simulation results obtained effectively from the proposed technique which is actualized and identify both detrimental and beneficial impacts of increased PV penetration for small signal stability performance. The study reveals both the small-signal stability of the system and its response to large disturbances that alter the active power balance and frequency stability. The results of the analysis demonstrated with single and multimachine environment by comparing with the other optimizations like PSO, DE, DE-PSO and GWO, the proposed one is effective for damping out the oscillations. The effectiveness of the proposed damping controller is further confirmed through real-time validation using the OPAL-RT setup.
Where is the Seeker Who Searches for Another? Decolonial Approaches to Digital Public History
Authors: Maina Chao Tayiana
Published: June 2024

This article delves into the role of public history within the context of suppressed and erased colonial pasts, underscoring the importance of individuals in actively shaping, uncovering, documenting and disseminating history. The period from the late 1940s–1960s marked a pivotal transition for the British Empire, as numerous colonies gained independence. This shift in sovereignty from colonial rule to sovereign nations unveiled deep apprehensions regarding the potential use of Britain’s historical actions and documents by newly independent governments. Operation Legacy was a clandestine initiative by British colonial authorities to destroy or hide records that could tarnish the British government’s image or compromise secret intelligence. The ethical ramifications of this operation, and its impact on the construction of memory and knowledge, remain a contentious issue for many in former colonies who are still striving to piece together their colonial history and seek justice for past wrongs. By highlighting the experience, methodologies and challenges of the Museum of British Colonialism collective, the article explores what a framework for decolonial public history may look like in a digital age. Decolonial public history requires negotiations that are continuously shaped by interrogating multiple sources, employing multiple mediums, engaging diverse audiences, and constantly reflecting and refining one’s own process and methodology. Inspired by Ngugi wa Thiong’o’s influential work Devil on the Cross, which portrays resistance to colonialism as a communal and interconnected endeavor, the article reflects on the character Wariinga’s query: “Where is the seeker who searches for another?” It concludes with thoughts on how digital public history can achieve decolonial significance and effectiveness, not merely through technological means, but by centering human connections and extensively building communities of practice across multiple frontiers.
A fiber-wireless integration approach in WDM-PON architecture, boosted with polarization multiplexing and optical frequency comb source
Authors: Lamba Ankita , Sehgal Jyoti , Kumar Manoj , Akanksha Eisha
Published: June 2024

The paper discusses an optical frequency comb source (OMCG)-enabled hybrid single mode fiber (SMF) and free space optical (FSO) communication system (fiber-wireless) delivering a total capacity of 96 Gbps by incorporating polarization division multiplexing (PDM) in passive optical network (PON) architecture. For the accomplishment of PDM, three diverse states of polarization (SOPs) are explored such as 00, 450, and 900. Performance investigation of proposed system is conducted for assessing Q factor and BER by exploring the different modulation formats in proposed system such as modified duo-binary return to zero (MDRZ), return to zero (RZ), compressed spectrum RZ (CSRZ), and non-RZ (NRZ). Results revealed that presented design can cover 30 km SMF + 3.4 km FSO range by incorporating MDRZ due to its spectral efficient and dispersion tolerant properties.
Verbal extensions in Sheng: an examination of variation in form and function
Authors: Kariuki Annah , Gibson Hannah , Jelpke Tom , Ochieng Merceline , Poeta Teresa
Published: June 2024

This paper investigates verbal extensions in Sheng, a youth language originating in Nairobi, Kenya. Sheng has received scholarly attention since the 1980s, primarily with a focus on its sociolinguistic traits. Our study aims to advance the linguistic description of Sheng and its morphosyntax by investigating verbal extensions in Sheng. Specifically, we look at the causative, applicative, reciprocal, and passive suffixes, as they are applied to coined and metathesized verbs and verbs which have their origins in Swahili, English, or Gikuyu. We present examples from speakers in Kibera and Umoja neighbourhoods of Nairobi. We find that, while many of the extensions can be applied to elicited verbs, such examples were often considered odd by speakers. In some cases, our consultants suggested alternative strategies, typically employing the use of periphrastic constructions or different verb forms. The use of verbal extensions sometimes resulted in changes in interpretation, requiring us to re-consider the function of these extensions in Sheng more broadly.
Joint application of the Monte Carlo method and computational probabilistic analysis in problems of numerical modeling with data uncertainties
Authors: Dobronets Boris , Popova Olga
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we suggest joint application of computational probabilistic analysis and the Monte Carlo method for numerical stochastic modeling problems.
We use all the capabilities of computational probabilistic analysis while maintaining all the advantages of the Monte Carlo method.
Our approach allows us to efficiently implement a computational hybrid scheme.
In this way, we reduce the computation time and present the results in the form of distributions.
The crucial new points of our method are arithmetic operations on probability density functions and procedures for constructing on the probabilistic extensions.
Relying on specific numerical examples of solving systems of linear algebraic equations with random coefficients, we present the advantages of our approach.
Frankincense: A neuronutrient to approach Parkinson’s disease treatment
Authors: Calabrese Vittorio , Osakabe Naomi , Khan Foziya , Wenzel Uwe , Modafferi Sergio , Nicolosi Lidia , Fritsch Tilman , Jacob Ursula M. , Abdelhameed Ali S. , Rashan Luay
Published: June 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD), characterized by tremor, slowness of movement, stiffness, and poor balance, is due to a significant loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta and dopaminergic nerve terminals in the striatum with deficit of dopamine. To date the mechanisms sustaining PD pathogenesis are under investigation; however, a solid body of experimental evidence involves neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and apoptotic cell death as the crucial factors operating in the pathogenesis of PD. Nutrition is known to modulate neuroinflammatory processes implicated in the pathogenesis and progression of this neurodegenerative disorder. Consistent with this notion, the Burseraceae family, which includes the genera Boswellia and Commiphora, are attracting emerging interest in the treatment of a wide range of pathological conditions, including neuroinflammation and cognitive decline. Bioactive components present in these species have been shown to improve cognitive function and to protect neurons from degeneration in in vitro, animal, as well as clinical research. These effects are mediated through the anti-inflammatory, antiamyloidogenic, anti-apoptotic, and antioxidative properties of bioactive components. Although many studies have exploited possible therapeutic approaches, data from human studies are lacking and their neuroprotective potential makes them a promising option for preventing and treating major neurodegenerative disorders.
Preservation as a Shared Responsibility: Collaboration for the Sustainable Preservation of Ambon Manuscripts
Authors: Wibowo Sarwo Ferdi , Alfida  , Fuad Khairul , Ma’rifat Devi Fauziyah , Zuhrah Fatimah , Warnis
Published: June 2024

The study supplements manuscript digitization, which often overlooks owners’ role in manuscript literacy, highlighting their integral connection to preservation efforts. This is particularly relevant concerning Ambon manuscripts in the former Hitu kingdom. The study’s primary objective is to discern optimal practices for sustainable preservation, emphasizing the community owners not as passive entities but as individuals possessing significant knowledge and skills, competencies which can be effectively employed to safeguard and uphold manuscripts. The data collection process encompassed comprehensive literature reviews on digital manuscript collections, interviews with owners, focus group discussions (FGD) involving the younger generation of heirs, FGD with Ambon manuscript researchers at IAIN Ambon, and observations on manuscripts and cultural practices within the community. The findings reveal notable aspects such as: 1) degradation occurs in Ambon manuscripts, both in their physical state and the transmission of knowledge post-digitization, which underscores a deficiency in knowledge transfer between manuscript users and owners, representing an ethical responsibility; 2) within Ambon society, old houses function as literacy centers for the community. Given the substantial quantity of manuscripts, these houses should be recognized as scriptoria and serve as foundational points for manuscript-based literacy development; and 3) traditional practices within owner communities indicate that manuscript knowledge/literacy extends beyond basic reading and writing skills. It encompasses a holistic and comprehensive understanding of knowledge, including its relevance to daily life, categorization, origins, literacy, preservation skills (particularly caring and copying), and utilization (for legitimacy, anticipation/conflict resolution, and even economic purposes).
Research on performance seeking control of turbofan engine in minimum hot spot temperature mode
Authors: Liu Yabing , Zhang Hongwei , Ma Bei , Li Liangliang , Hu Chenxu , Zheng Qiangang , Zhang Haibo
Published: June 2024

The uneven temperature distribution at the combustion chamber outlet seriously affects the working life of the engine. In order to reduce the heat spot temperature at the combustion chamber outlet, a performance optimization control method of the engine minimum heat spot temperature pattern is proposed. Firstly, based on CFD method, the temperature distribution characteristics of combustion chamber outlet under different working conditions were obtained, and a component-level model of turbofan engine was established to characterize the heat spot temperature at combustion chamber outlet. Secondly, the high precision and high real-time engine on-board model is established by deep neural network. Compared with the component-level model, the average relative error of each performance parameter is less than 0.3 %, and the real-time performance is improved by 12 times. Finally, based on the feasible sequential quadratic programming algorithm, the performance optimization control of the minimum hot spot temperature model in the typical flight envelope is simulated and verified. The simulation results show that under the condition of ensuring the safe and stable operation of the engine and constant thrust, the heat spot temperature at the combustion chamber outlet decreases by 21 K maximum. Compared with the conventional minimum turbine front temperature optimization mode, the minimum heat spot temperature mode significantly reduces the heat spot temperature at the combustion chamber outlet.
Wissensmanagement in KMU
Authors: Kick Elena , Schiedermair Ina , Baumgartner Marco , Kopp Tobias , Kinkel Steffen
Published: June 2024

The absence of individual key personnel can have a significant impact on companies’ business operations. It is therefore important for companies to analyse business-critical processes and secure them through knowledge management activities. In this article, we present the characteristics of business-critical processes and a tool for identifying and prioritising them, thereby making an important contribution to preventive, systematic knowledge management.
Nachhaltige Steigerung der Produkt- und Prozessqualität
Authors: Abramowski Johann-Philip , Quito Fernando , Grunert Dennis , Schmitt Robert H.
Published: June 2024

The quality in the product creation process is of crucial importance for manufacturing companies in terms of customer satisfaction and thus economic success. However, a growing variety and increasing product requirements pose challenges to the achievable product quality and the necessary processes. As a result, quality defects often occur in the development, manufacturing, and the application of a product. To be able to sustainably learn from the errors that have occurred and to initiate a suitable process of continuous product improvement as a company, the introduction of QRQC (Quick Response Quality Control) may be necessary. To illustrate the implementation of such a methodological approach, this article exemplarily presents the introduction and functionality of a problem-solving system at Liebherr Hydraulikbagger GmbH.
DreMoWabe – Dresdner Modell der Wandlungsbefähigung
Authors: Jäpel Nicole , Bielitz Pia , Stoll Elena , Reichelt Dirk
Published: June 2024

The Dresden Model of Adaptability (DreMoWabe for short) presents key aspects of the human-technology-organization approach and the transformation enablers commonly found in the Literature. Together with the design levels of networked value creation, company level, factory planning, human-machine interaction and machine level identified as essential, this results in a three-dimensional structure. It thus serves as a reference and regulatory framework to enable production companies to describe and evaluate their own adaptability in a model and to react more quickly to changes in the production environment on the basis of criteria and corresponding recommendations.
Masting of European Beech in Seed Stands from Eastern Carpathians
Authors: Teodosiu Maria , Ciocîrlan Elena , Botezatu Anca , Teodosiu Marius-Constantin
Published: June 2024

Masting is the process of producing seed crops, which presents annual variation and synchronicity among individuals. Among the major species in Europe, beech is the most common deciduous species, a foundational species in the majority of forest ecosystems, and it has economic, ecological, and environmental benefits. We present the results of a study in masting drivers at stand level in seed stands from Eastern Carpathians. Masting is controlled by stand and climate factors, among which the most important are the canopy position and the crown diameter, together with a surrogate measure for aridity, the Ellenberg quotient (EQ). Known as a factor limiting the beech distribution, EQ seems also to be determinant in masting intensity at stand level more than other analyzed climate factors. The identified parameters are suitable for the selection of the seed forest stands to be used in afforestation programs.
“Male-typicality Disadvantage” in Educational Outcomes Is Reflected in Personal Values, but Not in Personality Traits
Authors: Leikas Sointu , Ilmarinen Ville-Juhani , Vainikainen Mari-Pauliina , Lönnqvist Jan-Erik
Published: June 2024

Women and girls consistently outperform men and boys in educational outcomes. A large body of qualitative work suggests that boys’ difficulties in integrating peer acceptance with being studious may explain this gender gap. Gender differences in personality have also been suggested as an explanation. We investigated whether empirically constructed “male-typicality” in personal values, personality traits, and cognitive performance profiles is related to poorer school performance. In a sample of Finnish 15-year-olds, three male-typicality variables were formed empirically via supervised machine learning techniques. These variables were used to predict 9th grade GPA derived from school records. “Male-typicality” based on personal values and cognitive skills was related to lower GPA, but male-typicality in personality traits was unrelated to GPA. The results tentatively suggest that a male-typical value profile may be problematic for academic effort. The results also suggest that a “girl-typical” cognitive skill profile emphasizing verbal skills may provide students with a small overall educational advantage.
From Intel & Qualcomm to the new Art. 102 TFEU-Guidelines – Streamlining the Form- & Effects Based Approach
Authors: Pauer Nada Ina
Published: June 2024

Rapid digital innovation has promoted a broad range of welfare aspects and created a myriad of new business models. While these benefits are uncontentious, the special characteristics of digital markets, such as strong network effects, have led to a substantial concentration of power among a few corporate actors. The increasing complexity of these market dynamics has rendered antitrust enforcement more challenging, particularly with regard to assessing the abuse of market dominance (Art. 102 TFEU). Particularly the European Commission has been confronted with criticism relating to its previously propagated “more economic approach”, which has led to a lack of timely and effective antitrust enforcement. While there is a consensus that a new approach to ascertaining the abuse of dominance is pertinent – which the Commission endorses – the underlying assessment parameters are still contentious. This article argues for a standard of dominance to notably reflect the digital transformation and include a comprehensive framework. While the predominant intervention aim must be based on sufficient innovation, a notion of economic fairness and sustainability considerations gain momentum in antitrust enforcement.
The function of irony in the composition of a neo-romantic short story
Authors: Klimenko Irina
Published: June 2024

This article raises the issue of ironic effects manifestation at the composition level. The novelistic part of the work of the neo-romanticist A. Grin was chosen as the research material, the ironic mode in whose artistic method has not previously been subjected to detailed analysis. The relationship between irony in neoromanticism and classical romantic irony is considered. In romanticism, irony indicates an understanding of the incompleteness of knowledge about the world as a whole, the distancing of the narrating subject (be it the artist himself, the image of the author or the narrator) from the object of the narration; moreover, “double reflection” arises, since the romantics, through estrangement, distance themselves from their own work, creating parodies and auto-parodies of it. The features of romantic poetics thus identified later turn out to be objects of rethinking and parody in other literary movements, including neoromanticism. For example, the “irony of fate” discovered by the romantics is manifested in the composition of A. Grin’s stylistically non-ironic stories and successfully combined with the features of the compositional structure of novella , in which the obligatory plot twist can illustrate the tragic discrepancy between life expectations and reality. Moreover, cliches formed in romantic and post-romantic literature are artistically interpreted at the plot and stylistic levels. This kind of an appeal to the reader’s experience, dialogicity, and allusiveness become the basis for the Green’s stories composition. Duality can also be created when irony in composition is supported by stylistic irony. For example, in “The Headless Horseman (18th Century Manuscript)”, which refers to “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” by W. Irving, the comic naivety of the character is emphasized both by mocking the romantic cliches, that form the basis of the narrative style, and by constructing the composition in such a way that the reader imagines the outcome of the described events more clearly than the character himself. The ironic mode manifests itself in the interaction with the implicit reader, who turns out to be an emphatically necessary participant. It creates two points of view, which relationship strengthens the compositional unity.
Finding the origins: teaching the church slavonic language in the context of modern language-teaching methodology
Authors: Levushkina Olga
Published: June 2024

This article is devoted to understanding linguistic and methodological problems in the field of teaching the Church Slavonic language in the context of the spiritual and moral education of students. The formation of a new socio-humanitarian paradigm associated with the sovereignization of domestic education, based on Russian civilizational identity and the development of traditional Russian spiritual and moral values, determined the relevance of axiological linguistic methods and the need to understand the content and process of teaching the Church Slavonic language.The author examines the state of this process in two linguistic and methodological directions: teaching the Church Slavonic language as an independent discipline and in the context of teaching the Russian language. Making a brief overview of research in the field of teaching the Church Slavonic language as an independent discipline, the author concludes that it is necessary for modern science to comprehend, develop and systematize key modern linguistic and linguistic-methodological positions and relevant methodological tools for teaching the Church Slavonic language at school and at university. Reflecting on the need and possibility of building the process of teaching the Russian language with the inclusion of the study of Church Slavonicisms, the author names studies that propose strategically important directions in teaching Church Slavonicisms. So, E.V. Makarova proposes to study vocabulary based on the specific features of lexical Church Slavonicisms, which indicate their belonging to the spiritual sphere; carry out an analysis of hymnographic texts, allowing to reveal the mutual influence and interpenetration of the Russian and Church Slavonic languages; study grammatical Church Slavonicisms, which, as a rule, demonstrate the diachrony of linguistic phenomena.The author demonstrates the possibilities of modern axiological linguistic methods for teaching Church Slavonicisms in the school course of the Russian language: the use of linguoculturological analysis of the word as a concept in methodological linguoconceptology and the comprehension of the text, especially literary text, as an integral unit of language, speech and culture in the methodological linguoculturology of the text.
Karaim language studies – a historical overview
Authors: Jankowski Henryk
Published: June 2024

The aim of this paper is to put forth a short overview of the study in the Karaim language. Firstly, the position and importance of Karaim is stressed. Secondly, trends in research are demonstrated. Thirdly, general descriptions, grammars, and dictionaries are presented. The article highlights the most significant studies in the basic domains of Karaim linguistics such as phonetics and phonology, morphology, syntax, lexicology, and semantics. At the same time, the article formulates several postulates for tasks to be done. A selected bibliography of most relevant studies has also been included.