bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Winners vs. losers: Schistosoma mansoni intestinal and liver eggs exhibit striking differences in gene expression and immunogenicity
Authors: Peterková Kristýna , Konečný Lukáš , Macháček Tomáš , Jedličková Lucie , Winkelmann Franziska , Sombetzki Martina , Dvořák Jan
Published: May 2024

The eggs of the blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni are the main cause of the clinical manifestations of chronic schistosomiasis. After laying, the egg “winners” attach to the endothelium of the mesenteric vein and, after a period of development, induce the growth of a small granuloma, which facilitates their passage to the intestinal lumen. Egg “losers” carried by the bloodstream to non-specific tissues also undergo full development and induce large granuloma formation, but their life ends there. Although these trapped eggs represent a dead end in the parasite life cycle, the vast majority of studies attempting to describe the biology of the S. mansoni eggs have studied these liver-trapped “losers” instead of migrating intestinal “winners”. This raises the fundamental question of how these eggs differ. With robust comparative transcriptomic analysis performed on S. mansoni eggs isolated 7 weeks post infection, we show that gene expression is critically dependent on tissue localization, both in the early and late stages of development. While mitochondrial genes and venom allergen-like proteins are significantly upregulated in mature intestinal eggs, well-described egg immunomodulators IPSE/alpha-1 and omega-1, together with micro-exon genes, are predominantly expressed in liver eggs. In addition, several proteases and protease inhibitors previously implicated in egg-host interactions display clear tissue-specific gene expression patterns. These major differences in gene expression could be then reflected in the observed different ability of liver and intestinal soluble egg antigens to elicit host immune responses and in the shorter viability of miracidia hatched from liver eggs. Our comparative analysis provides a new perspective on the biology of parasite’s eggs in the context of their development and tissue localization. These findings could contribute to a broader and more accurate understanding of parasite eggs interactions with the host, which have historically been often restricted to liver eggs and sometimes inaccurately generalized.
Ultrasonographic features of the skin and subcutis: correlations with the severity of breast cancer–related lymphedema
Authors: Park Ji Youn , Jeon Jae Yong , Cha Seungwoo
Published: May 2024

Purpose: Assessing the severity of breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) requires various clinical tools, yet no standardized methodology is available. Ultrasonography shows promise for diagnosing lymphedema and evaluating its severity. This study explored the clinical utility of ultrasonography in patients with BCRL.Methods: In this retrospective cross-sectional study, patients with unilateral BCRL were examined. The analyzed data included demographics, lymphedema location, International Society of Lymphology (ISL) stage, surgical history, treatment regimens, and arm circumference. Skin, subcutis, and muscle thicknesses were assessed ultrasonographically at predetermined sites, and the percentage of excess thickness was calculated. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was employed to identify associations between ultrasonographic measurements and advanced lymphedema (ISL 2 or 3). The Lymphedema Quality of Life arm questionnaire was used to evaluate patient-reported outcomes regarding lymphedema and their correlations with ultrasonographic findings.Results: Among 118 patients, 71 were classified as ISL 0-1 and 47 as ISL 2-3. Patients with advanced lymphedema were older, had higher nodal stages, underwent more axillary lymph node dissections, and had higher rates of dominant-arm lymphedema. Multivariate logistic regression revealed significant associations of greater skin thickness (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 4.634; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.233 to 17.419), subcutis thickness (adjusted OR, 7.741; 95% CI, 1.649 to 36.347), and subcutis echogenicity (adjusted OR, 4.860; 95% CI, 1.517 to 15.566) with advanced lymphedema. Furthermore, greater skin thickness (P=0.016) and subcutis echogenicity (P=0.023) were correlated with appearance-related discomfort.Conclusion: Ultrasonographic measurements were significantly associated with advanced lymphedema in BCRL. Ultrasonography represents a valuable diagnostic and severity assessment tool for lymphedema.
Geometrical and constructive analysis of the choir and crossing timber frames of the church of St. María (Alaejos, Valladolid)
Authors: Martín Talaverano Rafael , Cabo Fernández Miguel Carlos , García Ríos Ismael , del Blanco García Federico Luis
Published: May 2024

This article presents a geometrical and constructive analysis of two significant carpentry works in the church of Santa María (Alaejos, Valladolid): the choir platform and the coffered ceiling of the transept. Both timber frames belong to the same historical period (between the 16th and 17th centuries), and have similar construction solutions, so they could have been probably made by the same author. The research was focused on the several pieces that configure these carpentry works. A design and construction hypothesis was then developed, including both the structural elements and some decorative elements, such as the muqarnas. This was done through a survey carried out with a laser scanner, which has provided us with an accurate 3D model. This study aims to deepen the knowledge of these carpentry works. We also provide graphic and written descriptions of both their current state and hypothetical internal configuration, which we believe could be useful for future conservation work.
Colours of the Tijomel ceramic manufacture (1941-1992): characterisation of a set of ceramic colourants and glazed tiles from Decormel Materials Catalogue
Authors: Coutinho Mathilda , Pereira Silvia , Ruivo Andreia , Bottura-Scardina Silvia , Veiga João Pedro , Geraldes Catarina , Gil Milene
Published: May 2024

Tijomel was considered one of the most modern ceramic manufacturers in the Iberian Peninsula in the mid-20th century. Located at Caxarias (Ourém, Portugal), this manufacturer produced diverse ceramic-based architectural materials, from common clay bricks to sophisticated modernist azulejos. Recently members of the family of the former Tijomel Manufacture owners retrieved a collection of 33 raw materials, mostly ceramic colourants. In this study, the chemical characterisation of these ceramic colourants was performed and compared with an azulejos commercial catalogue of the same manufacturer entitled Decormel Catalogue. The recovered raw materials and azulejos were investigated using a multi-analytical approach comprising h-EDXRF and μ-XRD to obtain their elemental and mineralogical composition and HSI and colourimetry to analyse their optical properties. Results provided a glimpse of the wide variety of ceramic colourants used in mid-20th century and showed that Tijomel combined the use of traditional azulejo colourants with more recent compositions.
Foreign academic adaptation: Emotional intelligence and resilience perspectives
Authors:   Krirk University, Bangkok, Thailand, Wang Chengyue , Chiu Yi-Hsiang ,   Krirk University, Bangkok, Thailand
Published: May 2024

This research navigates the dynamic terrain of global academia, where an increasing number of scholars seek international opportunities for diverse academic growth. Recognizing a significant gap in the existing literature, this study proposes to delve into the oftenoverlooked dimension of adaptive performance among foreign academics. Building on the foundation of cross-cultural adaptation theory, the research empirically tests the interplay between emotional intelligence and psychological resilience in shaping the adaptive performance of foreign lecturers. In an effort to ground this exploration, a structured questionnaire was administered to 800 lecturers based in tier 1 cities, including new tier 1 cities, in China. These cities were strategically chosen due to their dense populations and being hubs for a majority of higher educational institutes. The ensuing analysis, conducted through PLS-SEM, yielded compelling evidence affirming the pivotal roles of emotional intelligence and psychological resilience as influential factors in determining adaptive performance. Crucially, the study unraveled the significant mediating role played by psychological resilience in linking emotional intelligence and adaptive performance. These findings not only contribute to the academic discourse but also offer actionable insights for practitioners.
Why do dissatisfied consumers remain loyal? The role of switching barriers in online shopping
Authors:   Management, Universitas Airlangga, Indonesia, Widyastuti Widyastuti ,   Management, Universitas Negeri Surabaya, Indonesia, Hartini Sri ,   Management, Universitas Airlangga, Indonesia, Tiarawati Monika ,   Management, Universitas Negeri Surabaya, Indonesia, Artanti Yessy ,   Management, Universitas Negeri Surabaya, Indonesia, Untarini Nindria ,   Management, Universitas Negeri Surabaya, Indonesia
Published: May 2024

The existence of e-commerce has two sides of the coin for marketers. E-commerce can be very effective in marketing products or services. On the other hand, it also makes it easier for consumers to switch their choice to competing brands due to the ease of features in comparing prices and quality. Therefore, maintaining consumer satisfaction and dissatisfaction in the online shopping experience is very important for companies to retain their consumers. This study explores the relationship between dissatisfaction and switching behavior in e-commerce. The research was conducted qualitatively using the Critical Incident Technique (CIT) to achieve this goal. Informants in this study were consumers who experienced dissatisfaction when making online purchases in the last six months. The results show that even though consumers experience dissatisfaction, they persist in not switching behavior. The existence of switching barriers in online shopping in the form of ease of use of technology, time efficiency, convenience, and variety seeking are why consumers continue using e-commerce platforms even though they have experienced disappointing services.
Decoding smart tech's influence on tourist experience quality
Authors:   Van Lang University, HCMC, Vietnam, Hien Hoang Ngoc , Trang Pham Huong ,   The Business School, RMIT University Vietnam
Published: May 2024

Smart tourism technology has sparked a profound transformation within the tourism sector, notably enhancing the quality of the tourist experience, satisfaction levels, and the inclination to revisit among those exploring Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. This research examines the impact of smart tourism technology on these critical aspects and discusses its implications for the city's tourism landscape. A sample of 418 tourists who explored Ho Chi Minh City participated in this study, providing data through a quantitative research approach. The research findings highlight the positive impact of integrating smart tourism technology, including mobile apps, augmented reality, and personalized recommendations, on the tourist experience. These technologies enhance convenience and accessibility, leading to increased satisfaction among tourists. Moreover, smart tourism technology influences tourists' intentions to revisit Ho Chi Minh City, emphasizing the strategic importance of adopting smart tourism technology to enhance destination attractiveness, improve the visitor experience, and encourage repeat visits. Policymakers and tourism stakeholders should consider investing in and implementing these technologies to leverage their potential benefits for the tourism industry.
Non-Invasive Screening of Cytochrome c Oxidase Deficiency in Children Using a Dipstick Immunocapture Assay
Authors: Rodinová M. , Trefilová E. , Honzík T. , Tesařová M. , Zeman J. , Hansíková Hana
Published: May 2024

Cytochrome c oxidase (CIV) deficiency is among the most common childhood mitochondrial disorders. The diagnosis of this deficiency is complex, and muscle biopsy is used as the gold standard of diagnosis. Our aim was to minimize the patient burden and to test the use of a dipstick immunocapture assay (DIA) to determine the amount of CIV in non-invasively obtained buccal epithelial cells. Buccal smears were obtained from five children with Leigh syndrome including three children exhibiting a previously confirmed CIV deficiency in muscle and fibroblasts and two children who were clinical suspects for CIV deficiency; the smear samples were analysed using CI and CIV human protein quantity dipstick assay kits. Samples from five children of similar age and five adults were used as controls. Analysis of the controls demonstrated that only samples of buccal cells that were frozen for a maximum of 4 h after collection provide accurate results. All three patients with confirmed CIV deficiency due to mutations in the SURF1 gene exhibited significantly lower amounts of CIV than the similarly aged controls; significantly lower amounts were also observed in two new patients, for whom later molecular analysis also confirmed pathologic mutations in the SURF1 gene. We conclude that DIA is a simple, fast and sensitive method for the determination of CIV in buccal cells and is suitable for the screening of CIV deficiency in non-invasively obtained material from children who are suspected of having mitochondrial disease.
Experimental and numerical investigation of the deep drawing process using a tractrix die – An industrial case study focused on stress and temperature analysis
Authors: Mandic V. , Milosavljevic Dj. , Jurkovic Z. , Adamovic D.
Published: May 2024

The deep drawing process of thick sheet metal for vessel production is carried out by applying a tractrix die with the absence of a blank holder, which has economic benefits for industrial production. The main aim of the paper is the development of a reliable numerical thermo-mechanical model of a silicon brass vessel manufactured by a deep drawing process in a tractrix die and a subsequent ironing process, which includes the previous assembly of the dies with reinforcing rings that creates the required prestresses. The testing of the mechanical properties of silicon brass CuZn24Si was carried out by a standard uniaxial tensile test, thus a flow curve was determined to describe the material behaviour. The initial temperatures of the environment, blank and tools were measured with an infrared thermal imager. A comprehensive finite element stress analysis of the deformable tools was carried out for the assembly phase of the dies, and for workpiece and tools in the deep drawing and ironing processes. The comparison of measured and numerically estimated temperatures had a good agreement, so the developed numerical model was confirmed and validated. This research study demonstrates how different process parameters can be investigated through a reliable and precise numerical model with complementary experimental research for the optimization of industrial technology.
Is Your Learned Query Optimizer Behaving As You Expect? A Machine Learning Perspective
Authors: Lehmann Claude , Sulimov Pavel , Stockinger Kurt
Published: May 2024

The current boom of learned query optimizers (LQO) can be explained not only by the general continuous improvement of deep learning (DL) methods but also by the straightforward formulation of a query optimization problem (QOP) as a machine learning (ML) one. The idea is often to replace dynamic programming approaches, widespread for solving QOP, with more powerful methods such as reinforcement learning. However, such a rapid "game change" in the field of QOP could not pass without consequences - other parts of the ML pipeline, except for predictive model development, have large improvement potential. For instance, different LQOs introduce their own restrictions on training data generation from queries, use an arbitrary train/validation approach, and evaluate on a voluntary split of benchmark queries.

In this paper, we attempt to standardize the ML pipeline for evaluating LQOs by introducing a new
end-to-end benchmarking framework.
Additionally, we guide the reader through each data science stage in the ML pipeline and provide novel insights from the machine learning perspective, considering the specifics of QOP. Finally, we perform a
rigorous evaluation of existing LQOs, showing that PostgreSQL outperforms these LQOs in almost all experiments depending on the train/test splits.
Intelligent Pooling: Proactive Resource Provisioning in Large-scale Cloud Service
Authors: Ravikumar Deepak , Yeo Alex , Zhu Yiwen , Lakra Aditya , Nagulapalli Harsha , Ravindran Santhosh , Suh Steve , Dutta Niharika , Fogarty Andrew , Park Yoonjae , Khushalani Sumeet , Tarafdar Arijit , Parekh Kunal , Krishnan Subru
Published: May 2024

The proliferation of big data and analytic workloads has driven the need for cloud compute and cluster-based job processing. With Apache Spark, users can process terabytes of data at ease with hundreds of parallel executors. Providing low latency access to Spark clusters and sessions is a challenging problem due to the large overheads of cluster creation and session startup. In this paper, we introduce Intelligent Pooling, a system for proactively provisioning compute resources to combat the aforementioned overheads. Our system (1) predicts usage patterns using an innovative hybrid Machine Learning (ML) model with low latency and high accuracy; and (2) optimizes the pool size dynamically to meet customer demand while reducing extraneous COGS.

The proposed system auto-tunes its hyper-parameters to balance between performance and operational cost with minimal to no engineering input. Evaluated using large-scale production data, Intelligent Pooling achieves up to 43% reduction in cluster idle time compared to static pooling when targeting 99% pool hit rate. Currently deployed in production, Intelligent Pooling is on track to save tens of million dollars in COGS per year as compared to traditional pre-provisioned pools.
Effects of astaxanthin on gut microbiota of polo ponies during deconditioning and reconditioning periods
Authors: Kawaida Mia Y. , Maas Kendra R. , Moore Timothy E. , Reiter Amanda S. , Tillquist Nicole M. , Reed Sarah A.
Published: May 2024

To determine the effects of astaxanthin (ASTX) supplementation on the equine gut microbiota during a deconditioning–reconditioning cycle, 12 polo ponies were assigned to a control (CON; n = 6) or supplemented (ASTX; 75 mg ASTX daily orally; n = 6) group. All horses underwent a 16‐week deconditioning period, with no forced exercise, followed by a 16‐week reconditioning program where physical activity gradually increased. Fecal samples were obtained at the beginning of the study (Baseline), after deconditioning (PostDecon), after reconditioning (PostRecon), and 16 weeks after the cessation of ASTX supplementation (Washout). Following DNA extraction from fecal samples, v4 of 16S was amplified and sequenced to determine operational taxonomic unit tables and α‐diversity and β‐diversity indices. The total number of observed species was greater at Baseline than PostDecon, PostRecon, and Washout (p ≤ 0.02). A main effect of ASTX (p = 0.01) and timepoint (p = 0.01) was observed on β‐diversity, yet the variability of timepoint was greater (13%) than ASTX (6%), indicating a greater effect of timepoint than ASTX. Deconditioning and reconditioning periods affected the abundance of the Bacteroidetes and Fibrobacteres phyla. Physical activity and ASTX supplementation affect the equine gut microbiome, yet conditioning status may have a greater impact.
Unconditional Endowment and Acceptance of Taxes: A Lab-in-the-Field Experiment on UBI with Unemployed
Authors: Tena Estrada Blanca , Luong Nhat
Published: May 2024

A universal basic income (UBI) would be a guaranteed income floor for both the employed and the unemployed, from which economic theory predicts a gain in bargaining power and a disincentive to work. For high earners, the increase in taxes necessary to fund this program would decrease their motivation to earn. To assess these aspects, we conducted a lab-in-the-field experiment at a State Employment Service office in Spain. The unemployed participants received either an initial unconditional endowment, framed under the logic of the solidarity condition of UBI (UBI treatment) – to examine the taxes’ effect – or as a participation fee (FEE) or no initial endowment (NONUBI). Subsequently, they faced one default randomized task from a set of four paid real-effort tasks. To study bargaining power, they could change the task up to three times and/or skip all tasks and conclude the experiment. In the FEE treatment, they yielded the highest earnings. While we did not find a statistically significant difference in earnings between the FEE and the NON-UBI treatments, the UBI differed from the NON-UBI and FEE. A likely reason could be a crowding-out of motivation by the pressure to reciprocate without believing in other participants’ deservingness of the UBI. In addition, the results reveal that females change tasks more frequently than males.
One-pot synthesis of a network of Mn2O3–MnO2–poly(m-methylaniline) composite nanorods on a polypyrrole film presents a promising and efficient optoelectronic and solar cell device
Authors: Aldosari Eman , Rabia Mohamed , Ewais Hassan A. , Song Kenan
Published: May 2024

A one-pot synthesis approach was employed to create a composite nanorod structure (Mn2O3–MnO2–poly(m-methylaniline) or Mn2O3–MnO2–PmMA) on a polypyrrole (Ppy) film. Optoelectronic and solar cell thin film devices were constructed using n- and p-type layers of Mn2O3–MnO2–PmMA and Ppy, respectively. The optical characteristics of the n-layer, coupled with the morphological behavior of its nanorods, enhance optical absorbance efficiency, reducing the bandgap value to 2.48 eV. The behavior of the optoelectronic device is chiefly determined by the significantly higher current density (J
ph) value of 0.017 mA/cm2 compared to the dark current density (J
o) value of 0.002 mA/cm2. Additionally, the linear dynamic range is 85 dB, and the noise ratio is 12%. The optimized values for the photosensitivity (R) and detectivity (D) at 340 nm are 0.22 mA W−1 and 0.47 × 10⁸ Jones, respectively. Even at 540 nm, these values decrease to 0.08 and 0.2 × 10⁸ Jones, respectively. For solar cell behavior, the short-circuit current (J
SC) and open-circuit voltage (V
OC) at 540 nm are determined, yielding values of 0.001 mA/cm2 and 0.98 V, respectively. The outstanding performance of this optoelectronic device, coupled with its solar cell behavior, positions the thin film material for a dual role in various industrial applications.
Bilingual education in postcolonial Mozambique as a site for creation of ethical spaces of otherwise
Authors: Chimbutane Feliciano
Published: May 2024

Using a broad decolonial approach and taking the bilingual education field as reference, in this article I analyse the intersection of language ideology, education and social order in Mozambique. More, specifically, I combine transformative notions of “Linguistic Citizenship” and “spaces of otherwise” to uncover “coloniality of language” in education and in other fields, and to understand how spaces of possibility are being created and maintained. The combination of these notions allows us to understand the politics of language in diverse multilingual contexts and how alternative modes of languaging, thinking and being may emerge and endure over time or be silenced. I argue that, in addition to the current “enabling” legislative and policy framework in Mozambique, there is a need to transform institutional structures as well as the positionality of the vulnerable and marginalised citizens, as these are necessary conditions for fostering “diversity of voice” and “mutuality and reciprocity” of engagement across difference. In this regard, I discuss how agency and transformation within bilingual education have the potential to trigger ethical transformations in other societal fields.
Ethical events in the internationalising university: engaging, learning and knowing in spaces of otherwise
Authors: Holmes Luke
Published: May 2024

This paper suggests that a sociolinguistics of potentiality is an “ethical” sociolinguistics that will grapple with the difference of others. Drawing on a linguistic ethnography of Social Sciences classrooms in a Swedish university, it illuminates how students and teachers work to foster improved sociality and mutual responsibility across social and linguistic difference in internationalising university life. The paper develops through a consideration of Levinasian “ethical events”, defined as interactions involving that which is not known, normative or ordinarily visible, but for which all involved are called upon to take responsibility. Analysis of the ethical events involving instances of embodied interdiscursive performance brings to light how late liberal values such as individualism and competition could be disrupted in favour of collaborative and mutually responsible academic and social practice. Yet, as is characteristic of “spaces of otherwise”, the task of shaping such new relations in and around the classroom spaces involved risk and exhaustion. The study concludes by arguing that constructing university spaces as open to different ways of engaging, learning and knowing involves an orientation in response to others’ desire for mutuality and reciprocity.
Towards a sociolinguistics of potentiality: Linguistic citizenship, quasi-events, and contingent becomings in spaces of otherwise
Authors: Kerfoot Caroline , Stroud Christopher
Published: May 2024

In writing of the economies of abandonment of late liberal globalization, Elizabeth Povinelli also points to the potential for SPACES OF OTHERWISE, those spaces of “curiosity and risk, potentiality and exhaustion” which open possibilities for more ethical becoming and the emergence of new forms of sociality and social life (2012. The will to be otherwise/the effort of endurance. South Atlantic Quarterly 111(3). 453–475: 454). This Special Issue aims to contribute to an expanded, southernized sociology of language and sociolinguistics by exploring what role sociolinguistics can play in thinking through and with these spaces. It brings together a set of papers from southern contexts rarely represented in sociolinguistic research (Crimea, Mozambique, Palestine) spaces of grim endurance where suffering is chronic rather than catastrophic, and a study of the metaphorical south in the north, where migration imperatives land people in situations of precarity, in this case, Sweden. An illuminating invited commentary offers a novel perspective on the key theme QUASI-EVENT threading across all the papers. In exploring the construction of spaces of otherwise, authors use the southern concept of Linguistic Citizenship that construes language as a site of political struggle. This framing offers an alternative approach to a politics of language where potentialities for otherwise can be attended to. The papers show how, through acts of Linguistic Citizenship, participants bring potential worlds into existence, however fleetingly. From the chronicling of these ‘quasi-events’ emerges a sociolinguistics of potentiality, one which contributes to an understanding of what enables some emergent forms of life to endure and others not. The sociolinguistics of potentiality is an invitation to listen beyond and within ‘noise’ to those who inhabit discounted bodies and speak unvalued languages, to move beyond ‘community’ and ‘selfhood’ to becoming otherwise with others in projects of world-building, simultaneously prompting research which seeks to be ‘ethically otherwise’.
Generalized energy-conserving dissipative particle dynamics with mass transfer: coupling between energy and mass exchange
Authors: Colella Giuseppe , Mackie Allan D. , Larentzos James P. , Brennan John K. , Lísal Martin , Bonet Avalos Josep
Published: May 2024

The complete description of energy and material transport within the Generalized energy-conserving dissipative particle dynamics with mass transfer (GenDPDE-M) methodology is presented. In particular, the dynamic coupling between mass and energy is incorporated into the GenDPDE-M, which was previously introduced with dynamically decoupled fluxes (J. Bonet Avalos et al., J. Chem. Theory Comput., 18 (12): 7639–7652, 2022). From a theoretical perspective, we have derived the appropriate Fluctuation-Dissipation theorems along with Onsager’s reciprocal relations, suitable for mesoscale models featuring this coupling. Equilibrium and non-equilibrium simulations are performed to demonstrate the internal thermodynamic consistency of the method, as well as the ability to capture the Ludwig–Soret effect, and tune its strength through the mesoscopic parameters. In view of the completeness of the presented approach, GenDPDE-M is the most general Lagrangian method to deal with complex fluids and systems at the mesoscale, where thermal agitation is relevant.
Implementing green optical waveform system using hybrid cognitive methods for QAM transmission scheme
Authors: Kanjilal Pushpendu , Bhowmick Soumitra , Syamala Maganti , Kumar Arun , Nanthaamornphong Aziz
Published: May 2024

This study proposes a hybrid approach combining Energy Detection (ED) and Matched Filter (MF) spectrum sensing techniques to enhance power spectrum density (PSD) in optical Nonorthogonal Multiple Access (NOMA) systems. Optical NOMA has emerged as a key technology for boosting spectral efficiency in optical communication networks. However, optimizing PSD remains a critical challenge due to various factors including signal detection and noise interference. The hybrid ED–MF spectrum sensing method aims to address these challenges by leveraging the strengths of both techniques. Energy Detection (ED) offers simplicity and robustness in detecting primary users, making it suitable for initial spectrum sensing in cognitive radio networks. Matched Filter (MF) spectrum sensing, on the other hand, provides superior signal detection and noise rejection capabilities, particularly in low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) environments. By integrating these two techniques, we aim to achieve improved sensitivity and accuracy in spectrum sensing, thus enhancing spectral efficiency and system performance in optical NOMA networks. The effectiveness of the proposed hybrid approach is evaluated through theoretical analysis and simulation experiments. Results demonstrate significant enhancements in spectral efficiency and system reliability compared to conventional spectrum sensing methods, highlighting the potential of the hybrid ED–MF approach for enhancing PSD in optical NOMA systems. This research contributes to advancing the design and optimization of optical communication systems for future high-capacity and high-speed data transmission applications. The PSD values −920 are obtained and it confirmed that the proposed algorithm outperforms the standard algorithms.
The role of recoverability in the implementation of non-phonemic glottalization in Hawaiian
Authors: Davidson Lisa , Parker Jones Oiwi
Published: May 2024

Previous research has shown that non-phonemic uses of glottalization are often prosodically determined in a variety of languages such as English, German, Polish, and Spanish. We examine the use of inserted glottalization in Hawaiian, a language that also has a phonemic glottal stop, to determine whether the distribution and realization of non-phonemic glottalization is conditioned by higher prosodic boundaries and/or prosodic prominence as found in other languages. The spontaneous speech data in this study comes from the Hawaiian-language radio program Ka Leo Hawaiʻi, which featured interviews with bilingual Hawaiian–English speakers in the 1970s and 1980s (Kimura, Larry (Producer). 2020. Ka Leo Hawaiʻi [radio program]. Kaniʻāina, the digital repository of Ka Haka ʻUla O Keʻelikōlani, College of Hawaiian Language, University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo. Available at: https://ulukau.org/kaniaina/). Results show that non-phonemic glottalization occurs most often before an unstressed, monophthongal single-vowel grammatical marker (/a e i o/), where it is also longer, as well as before unstressed vowels and between different flanking sounds. Full closures were more likely between identical vowels, but stress does not affect realization. These results are not consistent with the use of glottalization at higher prosodic boundaries or to mark prosodic prominence. Instead, the preponderance of non-phonemic glottalization before single-vowel grammatical markers may be to ensure that these critical markers are recoverable and not perceptually subsumed by the preceding vowel.
Dynamic simulation of non-Newtonian boundary layer flow: An enhanced exponential time integrator approach with spatially and temporally variable heat sources
Authors: Arif Muhammad Shoaib , Abodayeh Kamaleldin , Nawaz Yasir
Published: May 2024

Scientific inquiry into effective numerical methods for modelling complex physical processes has led to the investigation of fluid dynamics, mainly when non-Newtonian properties and complex heat sources are involved. This paper presents an enhanced exponential time integrator approach to dynamically simulate non-Newtonian boundary layer flow with spatially and temporally varying heat sources. We propose an explicit scheme with second-order accuracy in time, demonstrated to be stable through Fourier series analysis, for solving time-dependent partial differential equations (PDEs). Utilizing this scheme, we construct and solve dimensionless PDEs representing the flow of Williamson fluid under the influence of space- and temperature-dependent heat sources. The scheme discretizes the continuity equation of incompressible fluid and Navier–Stokes, energy, and concentration equations using the central difference in space. Our analysis illuminates how factors affect velocity, temperature, and concentration profiles. Specifically, we observe a rise in temperature profile with enhanced coefficients of space and temperature terms in the heat source. Non-Newtonian behaviours and geographical/temporal variations in heat sources are critical factors influencing overall dynamics. The novelty of our work lies in developing an explicit exponential integrator approach, offering stability and second-order accuracy, for solving time-dependent PDEs in non-Newtonian boundary layer flow with variable heat sources. Our results provide valuable quantitative insights for understanding and controlling complex fluid dynamics phenomena. By addressing these challenges, our study advances numerical techniques for modelling real-world systems with implications for various engineering and scientific applications.
Understanding Contemporary Societal Challenges with Philosophy of Trust
Authors: Pedersen Esther Oluffa , Niknam Arman Teymouri
Published: May 2024

We argue that philosophy of trust can be employed to counter the paralysis of action ensuing out of the experience of polycrisis in the current state of international social life. Philosophy of trust can recognize the impact of the polycrisis on contemporary societies all the while that an analysis of trust inevitably takes the concrete life world experiences of humans as a central part of the analysis. Using the philosophy of trust as an analytic tool involves digging into relations of trust and distrust situated in concrete social environments which takes humans’ concrete experiences of trust, distrust, and breaches of trust into account all the while that its theoretical conceptualizations can pay heed to overall societal challenges. As such it provides a means to study our contemporary world of polycrisis without simplifying the social world or succumbing to paralysis. This is shown in short discussions and presentations of the five articles included in the special issue.
Pentekostale Migrationsgemeinden – Religionspädagogische Annäherungen an ein vieldeutiges Handlungsfeld
Authors: van der Hoek Stefan
Published: May 2024

Dieser Artikel untersucht die religionspädagogischen Potenziale pentekostaler Migrationskirchen im Kontext des evangelischen Religionsunterrichts. Vor dem Hintergrund der schwindenden Bedeutung traditioneller Kirchenformen widmet sich der Beitrag dem anhaltenden Wachstum pentekostaler Migrationsgemeinden in Deutschland. Diese Gemeinden zeichnen sich bisweilen durch ihre lebendige Glaubenspraxis und ihre Fähigkeit aus, Menschen über kulturelle und sprachliche Grenzen hinweg anzuziehen, was nicht selten zu lokalen Spannungen führen kann. Der Artikel beleuchtet die Notwendigkeit, interkulturelle Kompetenzen zu stärken und den Religionsunterricht weiterzuentwickeln, um den Herausforderungen einer pluralistischen Gesellschaft gerecht zu werden. Dabei werden die sozialen, institutionellen und theologischen Dimensionen pentekostaler Migrationskirchen in Deutschland und ihre Auswirkungen auf den Religionsunterricht analysiert. Besondere Aufmerksamkeit gilt der Glossolalie und der Wohlstandstheologie als charakteristische Merkmale pentekostaler Praxis und Glaubensüberzeugung. Der Beitrag argumentiert, dass die Einbeziehung von Migrationsgemeinden in den Religonsunterricht nicht nur zu einem besseren Verständnis religiöser Vielfalt beiträgt, sondern auch zur Bildung interreligiöser Kompetenzen anregen kann. Ziel ist es, einen dialogorientierten und multiperspektivischen Ansatz zu fördern, der Schülerinnen und Schüler dazu befähigt, die komplexe religiöse Landschaft moderner Gesellschaften kritisch zu reflektieren und ein tieferes Verständnis für die Vielfalt des Christentums zu entwickeln.
Es geht nicht immer so weiter
Authors: Heimbrock Hans-Günter
Published: May 2024

Im Kontext gesellschaftlicher Zwänge zu verzweckter Originalität fragt der Beitrag danach, wie innovative Erkenntnis in der Theologie zu denken sei. Als anthropologische Urszene wird zunächst die persönliche Erschließungserfahrung der taubblinden Helen Keller über die Lesbarkeit der Welt geschildert. Darauf bezogen kann ein theologischer Zugang die anthropologische Grundbedürftigkeit zur Intuition näher ausleuchten. Biblische Traditionen werden transparent als kollektive Gegen-Intuitionen eines sprunghaft qualitativ neuen Lebens. Dem entspricht bildungstheoretisch die Anbahnung der (ambivalenten) Fähigkeit, sich faszinieren zu lassen.
On the method of building of non-basic GL-models which are formed on combination of edge functions of basic models
Authors: Romankevich Vitaliy A. , Morozov Kostiantyn V. , Romankevich Alexei M. , Morozova Anna V. , Zacharioudakis Lefteris
Published: May 2024

Thiswork is dedicatedto the problem of building GL-models of behaviorof non-basicfault-tolerant multiprocessor systems in the failure flow. Such models can be used to calculate the reliability parameters of the latter. The system, depending on the fulfillment of certain conditions, is resistant to failures of various multiplicities. These conditions depend only on the states of the system's processors and can be represented by special Boolean expressions. A method ofconstructing GL-models of such systems based on combining expressions of the edge functions of auxiliary basicmodelsis proposed. At the same time, the specific featureof the models that were built by the proposed methodis that they are based on cyclic graphs. This simplifies the process of evaluating their connectivity and also simplifies the analysis of the model's operation. In addition, this allows usingother methods of modifying GL-models if necessary. The method involves usingauxiliary models that have the same number of edges.In order toequalize the number of edges, auxiliary models can be extendedwith additional edges with edge functions of a special type. It is shown that this extensiondoes not change the behavior of the models. In particular, theprocedure oforthogonalization ofthe Boolean expressions is described, which should be carried out if the conditions can be satisfiedsimultaneously. It is shown that the expressions of the edge functions of the obtained GL-models, which can be quite complex, can sometimes be significantly simplified. Numerous experiments have been conducted to confirmthe adequacy of the models (builtby the proposed method) to the behavior of the corresponding systems in the failure flow. Theexample is given to demonstratethe application of the proposed method.The resulting model is analyzed and shown to correspond to the behavior of the system forwhich it was built.
Determinación del grado de cumplimiento de los requisitos de revelación de la IFRS 16 en México
Authors: Lambreton Torres Viviana
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this research is to identify the degree of compliance with the disclosure standards of IFRS 16 Leases, in the year it came into effect. A checklist was developed with the disclosure requirements required by this standard. Using the Cooke´s methodology, an average degree of compliance of 64.79% was determined for a sample of 87 non-financial companies listed on the Mexican Stock Exchange, with a maximum of 100% and a minimum of 7.69%. We also identified that the degree of compliance is associated with the type of industry and weakly associated with the quality of the audit and the profitability of the company. This study contributes to the literature by expanding research on compliance with disclosure principles in developing countries and provides empirical evidence on the effective application of the IFRS 16 disclosure guidelines.
PREVENTION OF MERCURY-INDUCED EXCITOTOXICITY IN PRESYNAPTIC BRAIN NERVE TERMINALS WITH CARBON DOTS
Authors:   Palladin Institute of Biochemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Driuk M.
Published: May 2024

Aim. Xenobiotic metal mercury is one of the major crucial pollutants of global public health concerns according to the World Health Organization assessment. Carbon-containing nanoparticles (CNPs) are promising in nanotechnology. CNPs were obtained by the combustion of citric acid and urea. Methods. The cortex nerve terminals isolated from Wistar rats were used in the experiments. [14C]glutamate uptake and release in the nerve terminals were monitored using a radiolabeled assay. Results. It was shown that HgCl2 starting from 5 µM caused a concentration-dependent increase in the extracellular L-[14C]glutamate level in nerve terminals resulted from weak functioning of glutamate transporter, and so significantly decreased L-[14C] glutamate uptake. Combined effects of Hg2+ and CNPs obtained by heating of citric acid and urea were analysed. CNPs were able to mitigate in an acute manner excitotoxic Hg2+-induced increase in the extracellular L-[14C]glutamate level in nerve terminals by 37%, thereby being a provisional Hg2+ scavenger. Conclusion. Besides biotechnological implementation of data, developed approach can be applicable for monitoring capability of different particles and compounds to mitigate Hg2+ -mediated threat.
THE EFFECT OF N-STEAROYLETHANOLAMINE ON THE STRESS HORMONES LEVELS IN OLD RATS WITH INDUCED CHRONIC INFLAMMATION
Authors:   Palladin Institute of biochemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Ibrahimov K.V.
Published: May 2024

Numerous studies aimed at elucidating the evolutionary acquisition of the endocannabinoid system gradually expand our understanding of the development and functioning of living organisms. It is now well-known the indispensable role of endocannabinoids in higher nervous activity and other signaling high-activity compounds. Among the representatives of this system are saturated long-chain N-acyl ethanolamines, including N-stearoylethanolamine. Previous studies have illuminated a range of important functional features of NSE on various biochemical processes, including anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antidyslipidemic properties. Aim. Considering the involvement of the endocannabinoid system in neurotransmission processes and the influence of NAE on steroidogenesis, hypotheses have been formed and, accordingly, the goal of determining the involvement of NSE as an adaptogen of the sympathoadrenal and hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal systems, including its influence on their functional state in rats during aging under conditions of low-grade chronic inflammatory processes. Methods. To achieve this goal, an experimental group of animals with "pathological" aging was formed, to which NSE was administered for some time. At the end of the experiment, blood plasma was collected from the animals, and the concentration of circulating adrenaline, corticosterone, and adrenocorticotropic hormones was analyzed using immunoassay and spectrophotometric methods. Results. During the analysis of the obtained results, geroprotective properties of NSE were identified, which likely result from an indirect pathway of its influence on humoral regulation systems. Conclusions. Analysis of the obtained results suggests that saturated N-acylethanolamines (NAEs), including NSE, may act as direct modulators of endocannabinoid system activity or indirect regulators by regulating steroidogenesis, integrating into the system of humoral regulation.
EXPRESSION PATTERN OF THE MRPS18 FAMILY PROTEINS IN CHORDOMA
Authors:   RE Kavetsky Institute of experimental pathology of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, SUSHNOVA A.V.
Published: May 2024

Chordomas are rare tumors of the axial skeleton that arise from the notochord; they are observed usually at the base of the skull and rarer along the spine. Chordomas are resistant to conventional chemotherapy, that is why it is important, to find the new diagnostic and/or prognostic markers. We have shown recently, that genes of the mitochondrial ribosomal protein S18 (MRPS18) family are differentially expressed in gliomas. The MRPS18-2 oncoprotein is expressed at higher levels in cancerous cells compared to their normal counterpart. Aim. We wanted to investigate the peculiarities of the expression pattern of the MRPS18 family genes in chordoma to better understand their role in cancerogenesis, using an immunohistochemical analysis on chordoma clinical samples. Methods. 15 specimens of chordoma of the base of the skull and 5 samples of the spine localization were studied retrospectively. The specific antibodies against MRPS18-1, MRPS18-2, MRPS18-3, and RB was used for an immunohistochemical analysis. All cases were stained in parallel with appropriate negative control. Results. We found that MRPS18 family proteins are differentially expressed in chordoma tissues. MRPS18-1 showed the strongest signal in all tumor samples. The lowest level of the signal intensity was recorded for the MRPS18-3 protein. In several samples the RB signal was detected in cytoplasm of tumor cells. Importantly, in these samples the strong staining for MRPS18-2 was observed as well. The fine mechanism of sequestering of RB in cytoplasm of cancer cells should be further elucidated. Conclusion, These preliminary results should lead to a larger work on a role of RB-MRPS18 family proteins interaction for chordoma development.