bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Are You Feeling Now? Exploring EFL Teachers’ Emotional Labor, Institutional Power, and Dissonance
Authors: Alshahrani Tahani M.
Published: November 2023

This article explored preparatory year program (PYP) teachers’ emotional labor and dissonance in an English as a Foreign Language (EFL) setting and this relates to institutional power. It also addressed issues related to the conflict between their professional training, knowledge, and beliefs and the institutional requirements. The final evaluation test of the PYP was used as an example of top-down institutional policies that may conflict with English language teachers’ training and/or pedagogical preferences, thereby producing emotional labor. To illustrate these concepts, the data were analyzed from interviews with 22 EFL teachers at a Saudi university regarding their emotions toward preparing the students for the final evaluation test and the requirements of the institutional power. The results were discussed in light of the following themes: (a) orienting to feeling rules, and (b) adapting to institutional policies, teachers’ preferences, and other beliefs. The findings suggested that teachers exhibited high levels of deep acting and naturally-felt emotions, which could be explained by the idea that teachers internalized their roles. In addition, they showed that teachers may resist the feeling rules of their institution’s policies. This article ends with pedagogical implications and recommendations for further research on emotional labor as a tool of teacher engagement. The researcher's personal reflections and emotion(al) labor were incorporated with engagement with the participants’ accounts.
Investigating the Impact of L2 Attainment on L1 Attrition: The Case of Saudi Children Studying in International Schools in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Arubaiy’a Uhoud F.
Published: November 2023

Despite the significant body of research in linguistics, there has been limited exploration of the attrition or retention of the first language in a homeland after a person ceases to use or learn it. However, this phenomenon has become apparent in the Saudi community, particularly in the younger generation who are losing their mother tongue (L1) despite living in their homeland. To address this issue, the present study focuses on L1 attrition and examines lexical disfluency in the oral production of Arabic among 36 Saudi children living in Saudi Arabia. They are L1 Arabic speakers who learned English as their second language L2 while studying in international schools from grade one to six. The study compares the level of their Arabic proficiency to that of other Saudi children studying in national schools. The latter group speaks Arabic as their L1 and English as a foreign language. The aim of the study is to identify the extent to which exposure to English as L2 affects the oral production of Arabic among L1 Arabic speakers. This study is significant because the loss of L1 can result in the erosion of cultural identity and the weakening of social ties within a community (Genesee, 2008). The study provides insights into the factors that contribute to L1 attrition. This can inform efforts to preserve Arabic language and culture in Saudi Arabia, particularly among younger generations who are at risk of losing their L1. The results showed high level of attrition in the attritor group.
Sound Change, Value of PL-SKT Loanwords and Reflections of Society and Beliefs in the Epic Thao Hung or Cheuang
Authors: Pimpuang Kowit
Published: November 2023

The objectives of this study were to explore the linguistic changes, to discover the value of Pali (PL) and Sanskrit (SKT) loanwords in an old and important epic work entitled “Thao Hung or Cheuang”, and to describe the society depicted in this work and its beliefs. The conceptual framework of this study consists of (1) usage of PL-SKT words through sound change theories (2) values of the PL-SKT loanwords applied in Thao Hung or Cheuang and (3) reflections on the society and beliefs of the people in this epic. A qualitative method was employed and the data were collected from volumes 1-4 of the Dictionary of the Vocabulary in the Northeastern Thai Literary Work Thao Hung or Thao Cheuang published by the Royal Society of Thailand. The findings revealed that there are 679 PL-SKT loanwords in the work. The vowel and consonant sound changes were made for the sake melodiousness of the poetry of the work. The values of PL-SKT words can be categorized into five dimensions, namely, 1) language usage 2) word usage 3) sound usage 4) semantic usage and 5) aesthetic usage. The work also reflects the society it depicts, namely: urban society on a plateau which is class-based and agricultural, in which there is gender inequality between men and women and marriage between relatives of the ruling class, and in which there are multiple cultural influences. The following two types of beliefs were found in the society, namely: old beliefs and Brahman and Buddhist beliefs.
A Comparative Study on Two Translations of Lao She’s Black Li and White Li
Authors: Zhang Shibin
Published: November 2023

This paper employs Manipulation Theory and Skopos Theory as theoretical foundations to understand why and how external and internal constraints have affected translators in using translation solutions. This paper has chosen Lao She’s Chinese short story, Black Li and White Li, and compared the two translations from Wang Chi-Chen and Lyell A. Williams. A comparison of “patronage”, “professionals”, and translation solutions shows that the two translators produced remarkable translation works at their time and their translation solutions are worth learning.
Assessing Saudi EFL Learners’ Metacognitive Awareness of Reading Strategies: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alkhaleefah Tarek A.
Published: November 2023

With extant studies producing inconclusive findings regarding English as foreign language (EFL) readers’ metacognitive strategies, researchers are yet to investigate the perceived metacognitive awareness and use of reading strategies among tertiary EFL learners with varying proficiency levels, an area that has not fully received attention in the Saudi context. Hence, this study investigated differences in the metacognitive reading strategies that Saudi students learning English as a foreign language used when reading English texts to determine whether metacognitive awareness varied across proficiency levels (low, intermediate, and high). The study adapted and administered the Survey of Reading Strategies questionnaire to 260 Saudi English majors and analyzed the data using independent-samples ANOVA across the three proficiency groups, and found how participants varied in their perceived use of reading strategies across global, problem-solving, and support strategy categories. Overall, EFL learners with high-proficiency reported global and problem-solving strategies more often than intermediate- and low-proficient groups did, while low-proficiency group reported using support strategies more often than high- and intermediate-proficiency groups did. The study results also revealed how problem-solving strategies were most frequently reported by study participants, followed by support and global strategies. Subsequently, two major pedagogical implications are discussed: the need for Saudi EFL readers to be exposed to diverse reading strategies to help facilitate their reading comprehension of English texts, as well to reading-strategy instruction, which should emphasize global, problem-solving, and support strategies for Saudi EFL learners with varying reading abilities across different reading tasks.
Semantics of Quantifiers in Mandarin Chinese: Mei (每) ‘Every’ and Dou (都) ‘All’
Authors: Ruan Yufeng
Published: November 2023

From a syntactic-semantic perspective, based on the number feature of subjects and predicates, we propose that: 1. Dou, it is radically a maximal operator, while it is also a dependent distributor (or called “partial distributive operator”), which has to occur with plural individuality including mei; 2. Compared to dou, mei is a near-independent distributive operator, in that with a quantity predicate, it can be an independent distributive operator, whereas with a property one, it requires other linguistic elements like dou to create together the distributive effect; 3. The distributive effect can be achieved in diverse ways: by the sole entry mei, by “mei plus dou”, and by the combination of dou with its scoped nominals that possess “plural individuality”; 4. From the various ways of yielding distributive effect, a generalized rule is obtained: the plural feature and the individual feature, they contribute together to yield distributive effect.
Cognate Object Constructions in Najdi Arabic: An HPSG Approach
Authors: Alawadh Seham A , Althawab Abdulrahman A.
Published: November 2023

Cognate object constructions (COCs) are known for their idiosyncratic properties in that they consist of an intransitive verb that takes an NP whose head is a verbal noun that is semantically and morphologically cognate to the verb. In Arabic literature, this topic is considered one of the understudied linguistic phenomena. Therefore, this paper attempts to contribute to the ongoing linguistic research by exploring COCs in one of the Arabic varieties, namely Najdi Arabic (NA). This paper illustrates the main properties that are shared by all COCs in NA. It also provides a theory-neutral description of the syntactico-semantic properties of one of the COC types, namely the particular event COC. In addition, it offers an analysis of the common core properties of all COCs and the syntactico-semantic properties of particular event COCs using the approach of Head-driven Phrase Structure Grammar (HPSG).
Translating Political Discourse: A Critical Review of Studies in Western and Chinese Contexts
Authors: Sun Aina , Subramaniam Vijayaletchumy A/P
Published: November 2023

The translation of political discourse serves as a linchpin in promoting intercultural dialogue, strengthening diplomatic relations, and advancing international cooperation. This study offers a critical analysis of the translation of political discourse within Western and Chinese paradigms. It commences with a brief introduction to the subject under investigation, succeeded by a discussion on the intercultural salience of political discourse. Subsequently, the paper engages in a comprehensive review of seminal research in the field, elucidating pivotal findings and adopted methodologies. Building upon this analytical framework, the paper delineates prominent lacunae in existing knowledge. This endeavor seeks to galvanize focused research efforts, invigorating the domain of political discourse translation studies and encouraging a global exploration of untapped territories and cross-cultural communication strategies.
A Contrastive Study of Politeness Strategies Between Arumpone and Batara Wajo Based on Dialogue Discourse in the Lontara Latoa and Sukku'na Wajo Manuscripts
Authors: Kamsinah  , Darwis Muhammad , Fatimah Ainun , Nurahmad Muhammad , Imran Muhammad Ali
Published: November 2023

This paper aims to demonstrate the differences in the values of linguistic politeness strategies in the Bugis language inherited by King Bone, Arumpone (abbreviated as AP), and King Wajo, Batara Wajo (abbreviated as BW), respectively through the Latoa Lontara manuscript (Bone) and the Sukku'na Wajo Lontara manuscript. This is very interesting because theoretically (Brown & Levinson, 1978), the dialogue in the two Lontara manuscripts was asymmetrical or hierarchical (the dialogue between the king and the subordinates), so superiors may use the cukuk speech to subordinates. However, this study found that BW used the cukuk speech, while AP did not. The difference in the choice of politeness strategy was that AP chose the type of distance politeness or self-politeness, while BW chose camaraderie politeness. As for subordinates, they should use congaa speech to their superiors in asymmetrical speech situations. However, the facts show that the subordinates of both kings never use the congaa speech to their respective superiors. In this case, Kajaolallido (abbreviated as KL), the AP's subordinate used the sanraa speech as used by AP to him, and even used the cukuk speech to AP when was asked to give moral advice. Meanwhile, BW's subordinates always used the cukuk language to BW. The most important finding here is that the power of the moral advice variable became the determining variable in choosing the politeness strategy and shifts the power of the social status variable.
Morphological Process Through Inflectional Suffixation in English and Muna Language: A Contrastive Study
Authors: Aderlaepe  , Umiyati Mirsa , Mofu Hengki , Tambunan  , Izzah  , Jismulatif
Published: November 2023

The influence of regional grammar systems in learning English as a foreign language makes it difficult for students to use English. This study aims to find similarities and differences in the grammatical systems of English and Muna languages at the morphological level. Morphologically, English is a flexion type, while Muna is an incorporation type. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach with a contrastive study method. The data used are complex words containing inflectional suffixes in English and Muna languages. Research data in English were taken from library sources in the form of textbooks, journals, newspapers, magazines, and literary works in the form of short stories. The data in the Muna language were taken from field research in the Muna area by applying the techniques of skill engagement, note-taking, elicitation and introspection. The technique of data analysis uses ICA (immediate constituent analysis). The results show that Muna inflectional suffixes are more varied than English inflectional suffixes. It is due to the morphological type of Muna as an agglutinative language, while English is a flexion language.
A Survey of Translation Learners’ Uses and Perceptions of Neural Machine Translation
Authors: Li Fengqi
Published: November 2023

This paper reports a questionnaire-based survey that was designed to investigate how a group of Chinese translation learners used and perceived Neural Machine Translation (NMT), with a view to providing pedagogical implications for translation instruction which is being confronted with the AI-powered translation technology. 326 second- and third-year college students, who were translation learners as well as English majors from the same university in China participated in the survey. They reported high frequency of NMT use in their translation learning as well as English major learning. Instead of directly borrowing the NMT output, most of them post-edited it and/or used it as inspiration to accomplish their translation tasks. Although they evaluated NMT in a positive way and held an optimistic view toward the future of translation career, they expressed varying degrees of worry and anxiety toward their future employment and toward the use of NMT in the process of the translation learning. They clearly articulated the needs for NMT instruction in translation courses. Based on these findings, this paper proposes several ways to help reduce the learners’ worry and anxiety in translation instruction.
A Robotic Concepts: Study of Perceived Brand Reputation and Customers' Perceived Performance in a Restaurant
Authors:   People&Global Business Association, Hamid Rasidah , Reza Fazrul , Azman Mohd , Azdel Abdul
Published: November 2023

Purpose: Budget, hygiene factors, and the issue of workforce shortages have accelerated the use of robotics technol-ogy in restaurant chains. Even though service robots could operate many functions and roles, further research is required in hotel settings to ascertain how various combinations of robots and humans at different product/service tiers may affect customers' viewpoints and intentions.
Design/methodology/approach: This research study addressed the issue of data collected from 364 customers in Malaysia. This study examines both theoretical and managerial insights.
Findings: The findings of the study on product theory and performance, the use of robots in core and facilitating product levels is far less likely to enhance consumers' perceived performance and brand reputation. The perceived performance of consumers' services influences their brand reputation and repurchase intention. Consumers' re-purchase intention is only positively affected by their perceived brand reputation.
Research limitations/implications: This study employs an experimental design approach to investigate the use of robots in the restaurant context. Future research could focus on customers' real-world dining experiences with robot technology. Future research could be used to confirm the findings of this paper. All samples were collected from the Malaysia population, where diners' behavioral intentions toward robots may differ due to cultural differences. Thus, future studies in developed and developing countries are suggested to validate the research findings. Originality/value: The study adds to the literature on the product-level theory, robots versus human employees, brand and service performance, and behavioral intentions in the restaurant setting. The findings have ramifications for how robotic restaurants can improve restaurant image, expedite performance output, and mitigate the impact of the pandemic.
Mediation Effects of Financial Performance between Assets Utilization and the Market Value of Palestinian Listed Firms
Authors:   People&Global Business Association, Dwaikat Nizar , Sameer Ihab , Queiri Abdelbaset
Published: November 2023

Purpose: This paper examines the impact of asset utilization on the firm's market value and the mediating role of financial performance on a sample of non-financial sectors listed on the Palestinian stock exchange from 2010 to 2018.
Design/methodology/approach: This study uses a quantitative research approach as it incorporates financial varia-bles, including assets utilization, financial performance (ROA), market value, growth opportunities, firm size, and debt ratio.
Findings: The analysis indicates that asset utilization enhances the financial performance of firms and, in turn, the market value of firms. Thus, financial performance mediates the relationship between asset utilization and the firm's market value. Additionally, the growth opportunities and the firm's size positively and directly affect the financial performance. It also indirectly impacts the market value of the firm. In contrast, the debt ratio has a negative impact on financial performance and market value. Generally, these findings are aligned with Signalling and Agency Theories predictions in light of weak corporate governance and high concentration ownership in Palestine and investors' concerns regarding wasting firm assets, unless it enhances the firm's financial performance.
Research limitations/implications: This study was conducted using a sample of non-financial Palestinian sectors. Thus, future studies may examine factors included in this study on Palestinian financial industries to generalize findings for the Palestinian market. Additionally, this study used share prices to measure the market value of firms and return on assets as a measure of financial performance. Thus, future studies may consider other criteria, such as price to book value (to gauge whether a stock is valued correctly.
Originality/value: Palestine is one of the countries in MENA region that has unclear effects of asset utilization on firm's performance. Accordingly, this study highlights investors' fear regarding mismanagement related to the utilization of a firm's assets, particularly where there is a negative relationship between asset utilization and market value but a positive impact on financial performance. This paper provides a clear empirical evidence on how the asset utilization could be utilized in such market to reduce agency problem and to signal quality management to the outsiders.
Shear Strength Prediction of Treated Soft Clay with Sugarcane Bagasse Ash Using Artificial Intelligence Methods
Authors:   Centre of Green Technology for Sustainable Cities, Department of Civil Engineering, Politeknik Ungku Omar, Jalan Raja Musa Mahadi, 31400 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia, Che Mamat Rufaizal , Ramli Azuin ,   Centre of Green Technology for Sustainable Cities, Department of Civil Engineering, Politeknik Ungku Omar, Jalan Raja Musa Mahadi, 31400 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia, P. Rosyidi Sri Atmaja ,   Department of Civil Engineering, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Jalan Brawijaya, Bantul, Yogyakarta, 55183 Indonesia
Published: November 2023

Soil shear strength is an essential engineering characteristic used in designing and evaluating geotechnical structures. In this study, we intend to analyse and compare the performance of the Genetic Algorithm - Adaptive Network-based Fuzzy Inference System (GANFIS) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) in predicting the strength of soft clay. Case studies of 144 soft clay soil samples from Sarang Buaya, Semerah, Malaysia, were utilised to generate training and testing datasets for developing and validating models. RMSE and R have been employed to validate and compare the models. The GANFIS has the highest prediction capability (RMSE=0.042 and R=0.850), while the ANN has the lowest (RMSE=0.065 and R=0.49). From a comparison of the two models, it can be stated that GANFIS is the most promising technique for predicting the strength of soft clay.
Assessment of Indoor Thermal Condition on Traditional Vernacular Masjid: A Case Study on Masjid Kampung Laut, Malaysia
Authors:   Kulliyyah of Architecture and Environmental Design, International Islamic University Malaysia, Malaysia, binti Khalit Nur Athirah , binti Denan Zuraini ,   Kulliyyah of Architecture and Environmental Design, International Islamic University Malaysia, Malaysia, binti Sanusi Aliyah Nur Zafirah ,   Kulliyyah of Architecture and Environmental Design, International Islamic University Malaysia, Malaysia, binti Mohd Nawawi Norwina ,   Kulliyyah of Architecture and Environmental Design, International Islamic University Malaysia, Malaysia
Published: November 2023

Traditional vernacular architectures in Malaysia include public buildings such as a masjid were designed with the tropical climate in mind and have proven to be an excellent example of providing indoor thermal comfort to the occupants. It is a naturally ventilated building being greatly influenced by the building designs. In traditional vernacular architecture, the roof is the main building enclosure that contributes to the total heat gain. Hence, the research aims to assess the indoor thermal condition of Masjid Kampung Laut, Kelantan, the first traditional vernacular masjid in Malaysia. Data were collected using the method of field measurement to evaluate the indoor comfort level of the masjid, in terms of indoor air temperature, air velocity, and relative humidity. The results demonstrate that the average indoor air temperature is acceptable and Masjid Kampung Laut responded favorably to the local climate. However, it is believed that with an increase of 0.4m/s to 1.2m/s of air movement, will further enhance indoor thermal comfort. Therefore, the findings can guide further thermal comfort prediction studies for other naturally ventilated buildings. Several other potential passive design strategies for roof design are proposed in this study to achieve acceptable indoor thermal comfort conditions for the masjid in Malaysia.
Optimization of the California Bearing Ratio of Lateritic Soil Stabilized with Rice Husk Ash using Scheffe’s Method
Authors:   Department of Civil Engineering, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu, Nigeria, Elvis Ike Ubadinanwa , Chinwuba Ike Charles ,   Department of Civil Engineering, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu, Nigeria
Published: November 2023

In a bid to minimize the adverse effects of agricultural waste materials in the environment and also encourage for its optimal usage, this study aims at developing model constants for optimizing the California Bearing Ratio (CBR) of Lateritic Soils stabilized with Rice Husk Ash (RHA) using Scheffe’s method. The study practically involved sampling of the materials, laboratory testing and model formulation. The natural soil was subjected to standardized laboratory testing to determine its index and Engineering properties. The scheffe’s method provided mix ratios for the three mix components (lateritic soil, RHA and water) involved in the mix design. The method also employs the use of second-degree polynomials to generate the model constants. The CBR of the soil was the primary property of the soil considered in the study therefore, a CBR test was conducted on the natural soil and modified soil. The optimization technique carried out gave an optimal mix observed to be of mix ratio 1: 1.70: 0.25 for lateritic soil, RHA and water with a CBR value of 30%. The model formulated was further subjected to validation using the F-test and T-test statistical method and it was found adequate at a confidence level of 95%. Hence, the null hypothesis (H0 ) was adopted. The formulated model being adequate can be used exclusively to predict the CBR of Lateritic soil Stabilized with Rice Husk Ash within the same locality.
Factor Analysis of End-of-Life Vehicle Policy Evaluation
Authors:   Jabatan Kejuruteraan Awam, Fakulti Kejuruteraan dan Alam Bina, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia, Hairul Nur Nabila Natasyahani , Mat Yazid Muhamad Razuhanafi ,   Jabatan Kejuruteraan Awam, Fakulti Kejuruteraan dan Alam Bina, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia, Ismail Rozmi ,   Fakulti Sains Sosial dan Kemanusiaan, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia, Che Rose Rosniza Aznie ,   Fakulti Sains Sosial dan Kemanusiaan, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia, Tahir Zurinah ,   Fakulti Sains Sosial dan Kemanusiaan, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia, Suparjo Noordin Nur Atiqah ,   Fakulti Sains Sosial dan Kemanusiaan, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia, Sitinjak Charli ,   Faculty Teknologi Informasi, University Science and Technology Computer, Semarang, Indonesia
Published: November 2023

Vehicle manufacturers usually want their vehicles to last for 10 years, so vehicles that exceed this period are classified as End-of-Life Vehicles (ELV). Widespread use of ELVs can lead to environmental pollution. A framework for ELV management should be designed to address this problem. The aim of this research is to learn about ELV -related legislation and its implementation in foreign countries, as well as to measure public evaluation of the implementation of ELV recycling in Malaysia. The study includes a review of the literature that has been adopted in foreign countries, as well as a survey of 200 respondents. Data were analyzed descriptively using Cronbach’s Alpha reliability and factor exploratory analysis (EFA) using SPSS details. The results of the analysis found that the Cronbach’s Alpha value obtained was 0.925, which is more than 0.70. Results from the exploratory factor analysis showed eight factors with Eigen values exceeding 1.0, KMO (Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin) values were 0.792 and 0.881 exceeding 0.50 and Bartlett test showed significant values of p < 0.05, indicating items in the solid waste management knowledge section and ELV, community readiness and community attitudes were sufficient to implement the analytical factors.
Pollination biology of Maianthemum s.s. (Asparagaceae) in different parts of its range
Authors:   Department of Higher Plants, Biological Faculty, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Vislobokov Nikolay A. , Nikandrova Elena S. ,   Department of Higher Plants, Biological Faculty, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University
Published: November 2023

Maianthemum F.H. Wigg. is a genus of perennial plants inhabiting temperate and subtropical regions of Eurasia and North America. Maianthemum sensu stricto includes just a few species that have a wide geographic distribution, are morphologically close, and possess open flowers adapted for a wide range of flower visitors. The present study is aimed at investigating the pollination biology of Maianthemum s.s. A comparison of the pollination biology of these species growing in the same area allows us to clarify ecological differences between the species. Investigation of the pollination biology of the same species in different parts of its range allows for the specification of variation in range of pollinators due to the environmental conditions. We studied pollination of M. bifolium in two far-apart locations (Moscow Region and Primorye Territory); also, in parallel, we studied three species M. bifolium, M. dilatatum, and M. intermedium in the same location in Primorye Territory. Proterandry is typical of all Maianthemum ssp. populations studied here. The studied species have a wide range of flower visitors. All of them can contribute to pollination, but the most stable and effective pollinators of Maianthemum s.s. are bees (Anthophila) and hoverflies (Syrphidae). Geographical position of population is the most important factor defining the range of pollinators of Maianthemum bifolium. The range of pollinators is weakly specific to the three species of Maianthemum s.s.
Muhammed b. Osman es-Senûsî ve Musâmerâtu’ẓ-Ẓarîf bi-Ḥusni’t-Ta‘rîf Adlı Eseri
Authors: KARAÖZ Halil İbrahim
Published: November 2023

Arap edebiyatı tarihine baktığımızda tabakât eserleri bizlere şiir, belagat, nahiv gibi pek çok alanda ilim adamının hayatlarını ve eserlerini öğrenmemize olanak sağlamaktadır. Ayrıca kişilerle ilgili bilginin yanında dönemin siyasi, sosyal ve kültürel yaşantısı hakkında bilgilere de ulaşmamızı sağlamaktadır. XIX. yüzyılda yaşamış olan Muhammed b. Osman es-Senûsî de Tunus’un ilmi tarihine ışık tutan terâcim kitabının müellifi olarak karşımıza çıkmaktadır. Yaklaşık üç yüz yılı aşkın Tunus’ta hüküm süren Hüseynî Hanedanlığı (1705-1735 ve 1756-1957) boyunca yaşamış olan alimlerin biyografilerine yer veren Musâmerâtu’ẓ-Ẓarîf bi-Ḥusni’t-Taʽrîf adlı eseri Arap dili ve edebiyatı açısından önemli bir yer tutmaktadır. es-Senûsî, XIX. yüzyılda Osmanlı Devleti’nin hakim olduğu bir dönemde doğmuştur. Aristokrat bir aile içerinde dünyaya gelmiş ve Tunus’un yakın tarihi içerisinde önemli vazifelerde bulunmuş bir şair, yazar ve tarihçi olarak bilinmektedir. Bu çalışmada müellifin hayatı ve Musâmerâtu’ẓ-Ẓarîf bi-Ḥusni’t-Taʽrîf adlı eseri incelenerek Arap dili ve edebiyatındaki bilgi ve kabiliyetini ortaya konarak eserin alana dair katkıları tespit edilmeye çalışılmıştır.
Rawls, Truth, and Minimalism
Authors: McDonald Fritz
Published: November 2023

The expressivist theory in metaethics has a historical lineage dating back to the work of the great philosopher David Hume. Among the major metaethical alternatives to expressivism are constructivist theories, theories that have an origin in the work of another great philosopher, Immanuel Kant. One of the best-known and most influential recent formulations of such a view is due to John Rawls. There has been a great deal of discussion of the relationship between expressivism and deflationary theories of truth. In stark contrast, there has been very little discussion of the relationship between constructivist theories and deflationary theories of truth. I argue that Rawlsian constructivists should adopt a minimalist theory of truth.
De Sanctis - Cacchione Syndrome in a Male Ghanaian Child: A Case Report
Authors: Badoe Ebenezer
Published: November 2023

A family was followed up after the presentation of a rare complication of xeroderma pigmentosum (De sanctis - cacchionne) syndrome in a child. A total of four children in a family of 8 developed the disease. The background of the family was explored revealing consanguinity as a result of cultural practices among the Mossi tribe in Ghana. Rare diseases are more common when there is consanguinity and this is the first report of this rare syndrome in Ghana and the West African sub region. The child showed the characteristic features of microcephaly, severe learning difficulties, cutaneous hypersensitivity, peripheral neuropathy and reported deafness. The disease predisposed the child to early squamous cell carcinoma of the eyelid. Advanced genetic testing showed complimentary group A in the sibling. Genetic counselling was offered. Management involved the dermatologists, opthalmologists and surgeons. This case report seeks to emphasise that consanguinity is linked to rare neurological diseases in Ghana and external collaborations in the field of advanced genetic testing can be mutually beneficial. The general recommended management options like sunblock, covering clothing UV film protection on windows are not possible in the tropics like Ghana. Rather support groups and genetic counselling are paramount.
Covid-19 Vaccine Hesitancy Amongst a Population of Black Pregnant Women: An On-The-Spot Assessment in a Nigerian Teaching Hospital
Authors: Obajimi Gbolahan , Adekanmbi Olukemi , Muotoh Chioma , Adeoye David , Ebengho Ikponmwosa , Atere Oluwasemilore , Salami Oluwaferanmi
Published: November 2023

Background: COVID-19 vaccination is generally regarded as an important preventive intervention in reducing the spread of SARS-CoV-2 which became a pandemic in March 2020. Although various excuses have been reported as reasons for vaccine hesitancy, vulnerable groups such as pregnant women have been excluded from immunization. This study sought to explore COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy amongst pregnant women receiving ante-natal care at a Nigerian teaching hospital. Methods: One hundred and ninety-eight consecutively selected women attending the ante-natal clinic of the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria were enlisted, and a self-administered questionnaire was completed by each participant. Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 23. Descriptive analysis was generated and summarized with the aid of a pie chart, bar chart and frequency tables. Chi-square statistic was used to test for associations between categorical variables and p value was set at 0.05. Result: The mean age of the participants was 31.78±5.26 years. 152(76.8%) were gainfully employed and only 7 participants (3.5%) lacked formal education. 160 participants (83.3%) had good knowledge about the disease while 120 (62.5%) had good knowledge about the available vaccines. 46 participants (23.2%) had received their 1st vaccination prior to pregnancy and 115 (58.1%) were willing to receive the vaccine in their index pregnancy. 83 participants (41.9%), however, were unwilling to receive the vaccine and this hesitancy did not show any association with knowledge about COVID-19, educational attainment, employment status or ethnicity (p>0.05). Conclusion: There exist vaccine hesitancy amongst pregnant women in developing countries and this may stem from deep socio-cultural beliefs and taboos about care in pregnancy. There is a need for continuous education on vaccine safety and possibly incorporating COVID-19 vaccination where applicable as part of routine immunization in pregnancy.
Intestinal Ultrasound and its Application as Point-of-Care Procedure for Diagnosing and Detecting Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Related Complications: A Narrative Review
Authors: Rispo Antonio , Testa Anna , Nardone Olga , Guarino Alessia , Imperatore Nicola , Fierro Giuseppe , Castiglione Fabiana , Calabrese Giulio
Published: November 2023

lapsing, inflammatory disease affecting the gastrointestinal tract and leading to chronic damage. Endoscopy with biopsies is considered the gold standard for inflammatory bowel disease diagnosis, whereas magnetic resonance for Crohn’s disease extension and complication assessment. However, colonoscopy is an invasive procedure, while magnetic resonance is relatively not easily accessible for patients; thus, the need for a reliable, accessible and non-invasive way to perform inflammatory bowel diseases diagnosis and monitoring in the tight control era, like intestinal ultrasound is. Compared to endoscopy and magnetic resonance, ultrasound has shown reliable diagnostic accuracy in assessing Crohn’s disease diagnosis and evaluation of localisation, extension and complications. On the other hand, intestinal ultrasound is emerging as a valid tool also for ulcerative colitis severity and extension assessment. Moreover, performing ultrasonography in a point-of-care setting can guide the clinician in driving the diagnostic and therapeutic pathway, thus accelerating clinical decisions. As a novelty, point-of-care intestinal ultrasound performed with pocket devices could represent a promising item for the future of physical examination in outpatient or inpatient examination. The need for reproducibility of intestinal ultrasound among sonographers has emerged as a key-point in inflammatory bowel disease research field: the development of new scores for the evaluation of disease severity together with an intensive dedicated trainship could potentially reduce the differences between clinicians reporting. Accordingly, our aim was to perform a narrative review about the application of intestinal ultrasound in Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis diagnosis and monitoring. Furthermore, technical aspects of this imaging technique and its application in a point-of-care setting through traditional and handheld sonographers were explored.
Osteoporosis Screening Disparities in The Inland Empire of Southern California
Authors: Downey Christina , Kim Woo
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Osteoporosis is a common disease with high morbidity and mortality for fragility fractures. Effective treatments can be initiated prior to the first fracture if osteoporosis is diagnosed by Dual Energy X-Ray screening (DXA). DXA screening is recommended in women aged 65 or older and in men aged 70 or older. Disparities exist in the rates of screening based on ethnicity and gender. The aim of this study was to determine if there are disparities in OSP screening on the basis of ethnicity, gender or primary language spoken. Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed utilizing the Slicer Dicer tool in Epic to determine the rate at which osteoporosis screening is documented as being performed. Demographic data such as gender, age, ethnicity and preferred language were recorded. Results: 93% of women aged 65 or greater were documented as being screened for osteoporosis. 40% of those screened and 52.3% of those not screened were white. 39.1% of women who were screened and 28% of those not screened were Hispanic. 97.4% of men aged greater than 70 years were not screened. The percentage of men screened who identify as Hispanic were lower than those who were not screened (26.3% vs 39.3%) and there were similarly differences in those who identify as White in men, 57.5% of those screened vs. 41.4% of those not screened. Language proficiency were the same in all groups (men and women, screened and not screened). Differences between ethnic groups were calculated using Chi-Square testing and were found to be not statistically significant. Conclusion: Women are documented as having been screened for osteoporosis at a far greater rate than men. In women, Hispanic, White and Black patients were screened at similar rates. Language proficiency did not change the likelihood of being screened for osteoporosis. There are fewer Hispanics in the age groups studied than expected for the general population of the counties.
Targeting the ATP-Axis in Lungs as a New Therapheutic Modality for COPD
Authors: Pelleg Amir , Barnes Peter , Schulman Edward
Published: November 2023

Adenosine 5’-triphosphate (ATP) is found in every cell of the body where it plays a critical role in cellular metabolism and energetics. ATP is released from cells under physiologic and pathophysiologic conditions; extracellular ATP acts as an autocrine and paracrine agent. Its effects on targeted cells are mediated by subtypes of purinergic receptors (P2R). In the lungs, relatively large amounts of ATP are released under inflammatory conditions. Extracellular ATP triggers a central vagal reflex by activating purinergic receptor P2XR localized on pulmonary vagal sensory nerve terminals. This results in cough, bronchoconstriction and the release of pro-inflammatory neuropeptides via axon reflex. COPD patients manifest higher sensetivity to aerosolized ATP than healthy subjects, and the levels of ATP in COPD patients’ lungs are 3x that found in healthy subjects. This review succinctly details (i) the sources amd mechanisms of ATP’s release into the extracellular space, (ii) the ways extracellular ATP is eliminated, (iii) the deleterious effects of ATP in the lungs in general and in COPD in particular, and (iv) the rationale for the blockade of these actions of ATP in the lungs as a novel therapeutic approach in the management of COPD patients.
The high prevalence of COVID-19 in Diabetics: Unveiling the intricate interplay between viral and diabetic mechanisms
Authors: Mathew Dennis
Published: November 2023

Diabetics have an increased risk of contracting COVID-19 infection and tend to have more severe symptoms. This review explores the potential mechanisms underlying the high prevalence of COVID-19 infections in individuals with diabetes. It reviews the emerging evidence about the interactions between viral and diabetic pathways, particularly how diabetes physiology could contribute to higher viral reception, viral entry and pathogenicity, and the severity of disease symptoms. Finally, it examines the challenges we face in studying these mechanisms and offers new strategies that might assist our fight against current and future pandemics.
Application of the SSA to the Optimal Phase-Swapping Problem in Three-Phase Asymmetric Networks
Authors: Vargas-Beltrán Antonny Santiago , Angarita-Santofimio Oscar Mauricio , Montoya Oscar Danilo
Published: November 2023

This research addresses the optimal phase-balancing problem by applying a master-slave optimization methodology. The master stage defines the load connections per node using a discrete codification, while the slave stage evaluates each load configuration provided by the master stage via a three-phase power flow. For the master stage, the salp swarm algorithm (SSA) was selected, which is an efficient bio-inspired technique to deal with continuous and discrete nonlinear optimization problems. The slave stage employed the matricial backward/forward power flow method for three-phase asymmetric networks. Numerical simulations in IEEE test feeders composed of 8, 25, and 37 nodes confirm the effectiveness of the SSA approach in finding efficient solutions regarding the expected grid power losses after optimal load phase-swapping. Numerical comparisons with the vortex search algorithm, the Chu & Beasley genetic algorithm, and the crow search algorithm demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methodology in dealing with the studied problem. All numerical validations were carried out in the MATLAB programming environment.
Новий підхід генерації мнемонічних фраз на основі медіа файлів
Authors: Макаренко О.І. , Охріменко Т.О. , Бредніков А.В.
Published: November 2023

Мнемонічні парольні фрази стали популярним методом захисту криптовалютних гаманців завдяки простоті їх використання та можливості відновлення гаманців у разі втрати фізичних носіїв. Проте безпека мнемонічних фраз-паролів залежить від надійності початкової фрази та заходів безпеки, які використовуються для її зберігання та захисту. У цьому дослідженні оцінюється безпека зберігання мнемонічних парольних фраз і оцінюємо ризики, пов’язані з різними методами зберігання. Виявлено недоліки пов'язані з різними типами криптовалютних гаманців, зокрема, ймовірність витоку даних і хакерських атак, вразливості до фізичної крадіжки та пошкодження.  Було запропоновано новий підхід у створенні та зберіганні мнемонічної фрази за допомогою медіа файлів. Отримані результати дають змогу зробити висновок, що запропонований  підхід є більш безпечний за наявні методи зберігання мнемонічної фрази.
Розвиток схемотехніки інтегруючих АЦП
Authors: Сергеєв І.Ю.
Published: November 2023

Виконано аналіз АЦП, що використовується в прецизійних вольтметрах Solartron моделей 7065, 7071 і 7081, які мали рекордні для свого часу параметри по точності. Отримані рівняння перетворення, що описують процес формування вихідного коду, на основі баланса зарядів на інтеграторі. Показано, що такий баланс важко досягнути в усіх випадках, тому що для цього необхідні певні умови. Виведені основні рівняння для визначення похибок, що зумовлені неідеальністю елементів АЦП. Показано, що процесс перетворення вхідної напруги у вихідний код відбувається циклічно і має ітераційний характер, тобто після зміни вхідної напруги вихідний код змінюється від циклу до циклу за законом геометричної прогресії. Отримані вирази для знаменника геометричної прогресії та наведені графік залежності знаменника геометричної прогресії від вхідної напруги, а також осцилограми напруг у характерних точках схеми. Визначено, як значення знаменника геометричної прогресії впливають на характер процесу перетворення. Досліджено збіжність цього процесу.
Вибір технології множинного радіодоступу без суперечностей між справедливістю та оптимальністю
Authors: Аль-Шаммарі А.А.А.
Published: November 2023

Розглядається задача забезпечення наскрізної якості обслуговування неоднорідних безпроводових (БП) мереж з випадковим множинним доступом. Проаналізовані процеси виникнення конфліктів між справедливістю та оптимальністю вибору маршрутів та розподілу ресурсів у БП мережах. Розроблено методику усунення конфліктів між справедливістю та оптимальністю розподілу ресурсів. Показано, що при раціональному визначенні технології радіодоступу в неоднорідних мережах Функції кожного рівню та, відповідно, інформаційні параметри трафіку на цьому рівні можна віднести до однієї з двох альтернативних груп: функції, що залежать від конкретної технічної реалізації мережі або функції, орієнтовані на роботу із застосунками. Відповідно до цього сформульовано глобальний підхід до оптимального вибору RAT та запропоновано підхід для вибору RAT з використанням розподіленого метаевристичного алгоритму табу-пошуку, заснованого на піковій швидкості, яку спроможні сприймати користувачі. Розроблено розподілену систему вибору RAT.
Метод зменшення невизначеності даних в системах моніторингу на основі онтологічних доповнень
Authors: Каплунов А.В. , Волокита А.М.
Published: November 2023

Пропозиція щодо використання онтологічних доповнень має перспективу у сфері моніторингу розподілених систем, коли у сукупності зібраних даних існує невизначеність, а отримати чіткі параметри традиційними методами вимірювання досить складно у зв’язку з рядом об’єктивних причин. Було запропоновано представити онтологічно доповнену сукупність зібраної інформації у вигляді:

S_O^+=⟨A,P,V,γ,ω,O⟩

де O – онтологія системи. Таким чином онтології дозволяють проводити логічний аналіз над об'єктами моніторингу і виконувати довизначення їх атрибутів, тим самим збільшуючи кількість інформації в сукупності зібраної інформації. Додатково була розглянута перспектива створення онтологічних доповнень автоматизованими засобами на основі Data Mining аналізу. У статті представлені результати теоретичного дослідження можливостей використання доповненої сукупності зібраної інформації. Запропонований в дослідженні підхід може відігравати значну роль у розширенні можливостей систем моніторингу і поліпшення їх експлуатаційних характеристик.