bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Place-related neural activity in setting the stage for empathy
Authors: Vollberg Marius C. , O'Connor Brendan Bo , Vuilleumier Patrik , Sander David , Cikara Mina
Published: February 2025

What makes people experience varying degrees of empathy? Common accounts focus on interpersonal attributes, including victims’ group membership or social proximity to the observer. Here we demonstrate the contribution of imagining the scenes surrounding victims in driving empathy. Although imagination has been shown to moderate empathy, the relative importance of its components is unknown. Using fMRI (N = 48; right-handed, healthy, male adults), we separately identified activation maps preferentially associated with imagining places and persons, respectively. When participants imagined misfortunes happening to individuals in specific places, both the place and person maps jointly predicted affective empathy, and, less consistently, prosocial behavior. Place-preferential activation was at least as predictive as person-preferential activation. Results were robust to several group-, participant-, trial-level, and covariate-adjusted analyses. Moreover, place-preferential activation itself was strongly predicted by person liking, beyond place-related ratings. These findings are consistent with social affinity potentiating place imagination, which in turn increases empathy, above and beyond person imagination.
Teaching the Replication Crisis and Open Science in Introduction to Psychology
Authors: Pennington Charlotte Rebecca , Pownall Madeleine
Published: February 2025

The discipline of psychology has found itself in a so-called “replication crisis”, with large-scale replication attempts failing to support many seminal findings. For example, the Open Science Collaboration Project (2015) successfully replicated only 36% of 100 randomly selected psychology studies. In a bid to reform the discipline, a set of new practices and cultural norms have been advanced under the umbrella of ‘open science’ with a common goal to increase the replicability, reproducibility, transparency, equity, and accessibility of research. Yet, to ensure sustained research reform, the history of the replication crisis and open science must be taught within the higher education curriculum. In this chapter, we aim to reduce the burden placed on educators in developing resources to teach this topic by presenting a brief overview of the replication crisis and open science and providing three case studies for embedding this into large lectures, interactive small-group practice classes, and assessment.
Semantic extension in a novel communication system is facilitated by salient shared associations
Authors: Smith Kenny , Bowerman Josephine , Smith Andrew
Published: February 2025

Creative processes of semantic extension play a key role in language change, grammaticalisation, and (by hypothesis) the early origins and evolution of language. In this paper we report two dyadic interaction experiments studying the semantic extension of novel labels in controlled circumstances. We find that participants can use salient and shared associations in their perceptual environment (between colours and shapes) to bootstrap a communication system, and can then extend those labels figuratively, to convey both concrete and abstract targets, by exploiting shared understandings such as colours associated stereotypically with specific objects and emotions. By manipulating the presence of reliable statistical associations between colour and shape early in this process we show that such shared associations facilitate both an initial semantic extension and subsequent chaining of extensions; we also find that extensions relying on less certain grounding (e.g. between colours and emotions) lead to greater variability in how extensions are made. Our method can be used to test the creative processes of semantic extension under controlled conditions, and provides experimental purchase on the relationship between association and extension which have only previously been studied through correlational means.
Do filled pauses serve a …um… communicative function? A comparison of self-directed and social speech
Authors: Van Craeyenest Kasper , De keersmaecker Bram , Hartsuiker Robert , Pistono Aurélie
Published: February 2025

Some authors argue that filled pauses serve a communicative function in speech. The current study aims to test this function by analysing the difference in filler-use in a self-directed and social speech condition. Additionally, the influence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) traits and stress on the difference in filler-use between the two conditions were examined. In the first condition, participants described a series of different tangrams to themselves. In the second condition, participants described tangrams to another participant. More words and filled pauses were used when talking to someone else, but there were no more filled pauses per word. This suggests that filled pauses do not primarily serve as communicative signals. Instead they indicate that at least to some extent, they appear involuntary and automatically as a result of errors in the language production system. Furthermore, no significant correlation was found between the score on the ASD questionnaire or stress and the difference in fillers used in both speech conditions. Future research should consider experimental designs that more clearly differentiate between the presence or absence of a communicative goal, as the context of a monologue may still provide speakers with reasons to use communicative signals.
Linking Human Resource Development Practices and Organizational Commitment: Evidence from Nepalese Commercial Banks
Authors: Kharel Shreekrishna , Niraula Ganesh Prasad , Mainali Bhawani Prasad
Published: February 2025

The primary goal of this research is to identify the key HRD practices that   link organizational commitment and user predictability. The study employs causal-comparative research design and positivism epistemology.  An analysis of associations' effects is done using a cross-sectional survey questionnaire. There were 46508 employees in the survey, and 384 of them were chosen as respondents based on a judgment from ten commercial banks in Nepal. A standardized Likert Scale questionnaire was used to collect data, with 1 denoting strongly disagree and 5 denoting strongly agree. The average Cronbach’s Alpha value for all the variables was 0.77, which has been used as a criterion to evaluate reliability. A total of 430 questionnaires were circulated, and 384 valid responses were collected. SPSS has been used to analyse the data. Regression analysis was used to estimate and forecast the associations. Results reveal that performance management was found to be inconsistent and insignificant, while all other variables that were found to be significant predictors of employee engagement (r2 = 0.648) included training and development, career advancement, and job security. This study also aims to demonstrate the need for proactive, all-encompassing approaches to factor efforts in order to emphasize organizational commitment and ensure alignment with business objectives in Nepalese commercial banks.
Impact of Practitioner Factors on Adoption of Human Resource Analytics in the Organizations of Nepal
Authors: Chhetri Shanti Devi , Ranabhat Deepesh , Sapkota Pradeep , Lamichhane Bishwa Nath
Published: February 2025

This study intends to explore the practitioner factors that influence the adoption of HR analytics in the developing country, Nepal. Adopting a quantitative approach to research and using a self-administered questionnaire, 385 organizations were purposively sampled from various types of organization in Nepal. IBM SPSS was used for analysis of the data. The empirical results exhibit that there is a statistically significant relationship between awareness and readiness of practitioners for adopting human resource analytics. However, IT expertise/analytical skills do not have a significant relationship with the same. The study concludes that organization must prepare employees for technological changes by clearly communicating the purpose and benefits of the new technology by conducting hands-on training sessions, offering step-by-step guides, and providing continuous support. These results contribute to theory by providing insights into how practitioner-related factors, such as awareness, IT expertise/analytical skills, innovation, and readiness influence the adoption of HR Analytics enriching existing models of technology adoption in the organizational context. From a regulatory perspective, the findings can inform policy frameworks to emphasize training, skill development, and standardized guidelines, ensuring organizations in Nepal are better equipped to adopt and implement HR analytics effectively.
नेपाली भाषाका सन्दर्भमा वाक्क्रियाको सिद्धान्त
Authors: Tiwari Prem Prasad , Paudyal Shalikram
Published: February 2025

प्रस्तुत लेख नेपाली भाषाका सन्दर्भमा वाक्व्रिmयाको सिद्धान्तको अध्ययनमा केन्द्रित रहेको छ । यस लेखमा आवश्यक सामग्रीको सङ्कलन पुस्तकालय कार्यबाट गरिएको छ । गुणात्मक ढाँचामा आधारित रहेको यस लेखमा विभिन्न उदाहरणका माध्यमबाट वाक्व्रिmया सिद्धान्त र त्यसको अवधारणालाई स्पष्ट पारिएको छ । प्रस्तुत लेखमा अस्टिन र सर्लले वाक्व्रिmयाका बारेमा प्रस्तुत गरेको अवधारणालाई नेपाली भाषाका वाक्यको सन्दर्भबाट स्पष्ट पारिएको छ । प्रस्तुत लेखमा जे.एल. अस्टिनले वाक्व्रिmयाका बारेमा अध्ययन गर्दा सूचनामूलक र सम्पादनकारी व्रिmयाको चर्चा गर्दै सम्पादनकारी व्रिmयालाई वाक्व्रिmयाका रूपमा प्रस्तुत गरेका र तिनै सम्पादनकारी व्रिmयाले सूचनासँगै कार्य सम्पादनसमेत गरेको हुन्छ भन्ने सिद्धान्तलाई नेपाली भाषाका सन्दर्भबाट स्पष्ट पारिएको छ । यस्ता सम्पादनकारी व्रिmया प्रथम पुरुष, निश्चयार्थक र वर्तमान कालमा हुनुपर्ने र वाक्व्रिmया सम्पन्न हुनका लागि ‘व्यक्ति र स्थानको उपयुक्तता’, ‘कार्यको पूर्णता र उपयुक्तता’ र ‘आशयको उपयुक्तता’ जस्ता सुहाउँदा सर्त पनि आवश्यक पर्छ भन्ने सिद्धान्तलाई पनि नेपाली भाषाका सन्दर्भबाट स्पष्ट पार्ने कार्य यस लेखमा गरिएको छ । जे. आर. सर्लले अस्टिनले अघि सारेको वाक्व्रिmयाका बारेमा विस्तृतरूपमा चर्चा गर्दै जुनसुकै व्रिmया पनि सम्पादनकारी हुन्छ भन्दै कार्य सम्पादनका आधारमा वाक्व्रिmयालाई निश्चयार्थक, निर्देशनात्मक, प्रतिज्ञामूलक, अभिव्यक्तिमूलक, घोषणात्मक तथा भाषिक संरचना र अर्थका आधारमा प्रत्यक्ष र अप्रत्यक्ष वाक्व्रिmया गरी विभाजन गरेका प्रकारलाई समेत उदाहरणका माध्यमबाट स्पष्ट पार्ने काम यस लेखमा गरिएको छ । सर्लले भाषिक उच्चारणका व्रmममा व्रिmयाले गर्ने तीनओटा कार्य (लोक्युसनरी व्रिmया, इल्लोक्युसनरी व्रिmया र फर्लोक्युसनरी व्रिmया) उल्लेख गरेका छन् र उनले प्रतिज्ञप्तिपरक पूर्वतयारी, सद्भावना र अत्यावश्यक सर्त गरी चारओटा सर्तको कुरा गरेका छन् भन्ने सिद्धान्तका आधारमा नेपाली भाषाका उदाहरणलाई राखेर वाक्व्रिmयालाई स्पष्ट पार्ने काम यस लेखमा गरिएको छ । यस लेखमा मुख्यरूपमा यिनै अस्टिन र सर्लले स्थापित गरेको वाक्व्रिmयाको सिद्धान्तअनुरूप नेपाली भाषाका वाक्यले कसरी काम गरेका हुन्छन् भन्ने कुरा स्पष्ट पारिएकाले वाक्व्रिmया सिद्धान्तको नेपाली सन्दर्भ प्रस्ट पार्ने कार्य गरिएको छ ।
Financial Inclusion and Well-Being of Marginalized Street Vendors in Chitwan
Authors: Chhetri Guna Raj , Poudel Pawan
Published: February 2025

This study aims to examine the determinants of financial inclusion and investigate its influence on the financial well-being of marginalized street vendors in Chitwan, utilizing social capital theory as a theoretical framework. The research is based on quantitative analysis, with data collected from 205 respondents using structured questionnaires distributed through offline and online channels. Convenience sampling was employed to gather data. The study used descriptive and inferential statistical methods and analyzed the data using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Among the five dimensions of financial inclusion determinants, financial literacy, availability, usage, and affordability significantly influenced financial inclusion, whereas accessibility did not have a significant impact. The findings further revealed that financial inclusion significantly impacts the financial well-being of marginalized street vendors in Chitwan. The study is limited to marginalized street vendors in Chitwan and may not be generalizable to other contexts or populations. Future research should explore the interrelationships between individual financial inclusion and financial well-being in broader or comparative settings for a comprehensive understanding of this relationship. The study provides valuable insights for policymakers, financial institutions, and development organizations aiming to enhance financial inclusion and promote financial well-being among marginalized communities. It highlights the need for targeted interventions in financial literacy, service availability, usage, and affordability.
The Macaronic Khyali: Shifting Contours of Limbu Indigenous Aesthetics
Authors: Lungeli Dipak
Published: February 2025

This paper examines selected khyali (traditional performative art of Limbu) from the collection of Bakhat Angdembe and compositions of Swapnil Smriti and Munaraj Sherma in two major borderland contexts; the spontaneous embedding of Nepali and other codes into the paradigm of Limbu repertoire and the functioning of mestiza consciousness in the contact zone. Khyali, a unique four/five syllabic romantic folk song in yakthung pan (Limbu language) performed by young lash and lads, sets introductory inquiries to enhance the further course of yalang (paddy dance) and  palam (song unison to yalang). However, macaronic shifts in its highly contextualized contemporary discourses epitomize the folk song as interstitial borderland text. The study addresses the primary questions of what factors contribute to the hybridization of khyali in contemporary contexts and what politics does its hybrid aesthetics promulgate in literary and social-political borders. Pertaining to these questions, the objectives of the study is to analyze resilience and resistance dynamics of Limbu contributing to the hybridity in contour; and to explore the politics of negotiation and re-signification of identity in literary and socio-political borders. To meet the objectives, the study applies theoretical insights of borderland studies specific to the concepts of third space, code switching/mixing and mestiza consciousness. Against the backdrop of this framework, the paper argues that hybridity chronicled in repartee results from the crisscrossed negotiation between Limbu ethnicity and counterpart cultures. The hybrid expressions and worldviews that khyali is filled with reflects the synthesizing power of Limbu people’s while wrestling against the dominant borders. The poetic expressions in khyali function as their agency of resilience, resistance, reinterpretation and adaptation and their ability to recover and reinvent their identity in the face of a shifting literary and socio-political context.
Complicações tardias decorrentes do uso de lacre plástico em cirurgia de ovariohisterectomia em cadela
Authors: Camacho Bianca , Finardi Kátia , Franzoni Mayara , Zanfelicio Luciana , Lambertucci Miriã
Published: February 2025

Ovariohysterectomy is considered the most commonly performed elective and/or therapeutic procedure on the reproductive system of female dogs and cats, seeking to control birth rates and overpopulation, or as a treatment measure for patients with pyometra, tumors or other conditions. The castration technique is classified as simple; however, complications can occur that cause significant sequelae or even lead to the death of the animal. As an alternative to the traditional technique, in which sutures are used to ligate the ovarian and uterine pedicles, some veterinarians opt to use plastic seals, aiming to reduce surgical time, as well as surgical costs. However, this material can cause complications such as the development of granulomas and intra-abdominal adhesions. This study aims to report the case of a 6-year-old female dog, of mixed breed, diagnosed with granuloma in the topography of ovarian pedicles, adhered to the kidneys, with total obstruction of the right ureter and partial obstruction of the left ureter. The patient underwent exploratory laparotomy, where it was necessary to perform nephrectomy of the right kidney, which in its evaluation, removed a plastic seal from the granuloma. Due to the extension of adhesions, it was not possible to remove the granuloma from the left kidney, thus opting for palliative treatment of the patient.
Pelatihan Pengelolaan Website dengan Wordpress di SDN Utan Kayu Utara 01
Authors: Kristiyanto Yogi , Wardani Mursida Kusuma , Andriyani Meli , Rachman Muhammad Maulana
Published: February 2025

The existence of a school website is an important means to convey information effectively to students, teachers, parents, and the general public. SDN Utan Kayu Utara 01, located in East Jakarta, has an official website that can be used as a medium for information and communication. This training aims to provide a basic understanding of the importance of websites in education; train participants to manage websites using WordPress, a platform that is easily accessible and user-friendly; support SDN Utan Kayu Utara 01 in creating a digital platform that supports teaching and learning activities and administration. This training is carried out through three main stages, namely preparation, implementation, evaluation and mentoring. The implementation is carried out in one full day (8 hours) consisting of 3 sessions, namely Introduction to Websites and WordPress, Website Management and File Management. Website management training using WordPress at SDN Utan Kayu Utara 01 has produced several significant achievements, both in terms of participant capabilities and infrastructure management. This training has succeeded in improving teachers' technical skills in managing school websites, such as uploading various types of content such as text, images, and videos to beautify and complete the website page. Website management training using WordPress at SDN Utan Kayu Utara 01 has been successfully implemented. From the evaluation, the majority of participants felt that this training was very useful, especially in facing the demands of digitalization of education.
ZWIERCIADŁO CZŁOWIECZEŃSTWA: WIZJE SZTUCZNEJ INTELIGENCJI W PROZIE STANISŁAWA LEMA I PHILIPA K. DICKA
Authors: Sobota Jacek
Published: February 2025

Artykuł koncentruje się na wizjach sztucznej inteligencji nakreślonych przez dwóch wybitnych dwudziestowiecznych pisarzy: Philipa K. Dicka i Stanisława Lema. Obaj – przy wszystkich dzielących ich różnicach w temperamencie twórczym, pisarskiej metodzie, w sposobach obrazowania świata – mieli wspólne przekonanie: technologią, która zdefiniuje i uformuje XXI stulecie, będzie sztuczna inteligencja. Ich wizje – w kontekście widocznej obecnie, coraz mocniej zaznaczającej się ingerencji algorytmów SI (na razie słabej SI, nieświadomej własnego istnienia) w ludzkie życie – nabierają niepokojącej aktualności, a także wydają się niezwykle interesujące z punktu widzenia filozofii, etyki. Oczywiście teksty obu pisarzy nie roszczą sobie prawa do znamion naukowości (choć, przynajmniej częściowo, były oparte na dostępnej im wiedzy o naukowym charakterze), tym niemniej są bardzo ciekawym punktem widzenia. Warto też zwrócić uwagę na aspekt antropologiczny i alegoryczny utworów Lema i Dicka – sztuczne inteligencje stanowią tu rodzaj antropologicznego lustra, w którym odbija się, nieco może zniekształcony, obraz gatunku Homo sapiens. A może jest odwrotnie? Może to ludzie stanowią zwierciadło, w którym odbijają się sztuczne inteligencje – powielając i zwielokrotniając nasze wady i zalety?
ІННОВАЦІЙНІ ЕНЕРГОЗБЕРІГАЮЧІ СИСТЕМИ У ВИРОБНИЦТВІ БІОПАЛИВА ЯК ШЛЯХ ДО СТАЛОГО РОЗВИТКУ АГРОПРОМИСЛОВОГО КОМПЛЕКСУ
Authors: Валецька О. В. , Налобіна О. О. , Голотюк М. В. , Пилипака Т. С. , Колесник Т. М. , Шимко А. В.
Published: February 2025

Стаття досліджує інноваційні енергозберігаючі системи у виробництві біопального, акцентуючи їхній важливий вплив на сталий розвиток агропромислового комплексу. В умовах глобальних екологічних викликів і потреби у зменшеннінегативного впливу традиційних енергетичних систем на навколишнє середовище, ефективне використання енергії стає критично важливим для аграрного сектору. У науковій роботі досліджено сучасні технології, які дозволяють зменшити енергетичні витрати і підвищити ефективність процесів виробництва біопального. Окрему увагу приділено когенераційним установкам, що дозволяють одночасно виробляти електричну та теплову енергію з біомаси, а також термічним насосам, які використовують відновлювальні джерела тепла для оптимізації температурних режимів. Досліджено важливі аспекти впровадження систем управління енергетичними ресурсами (EMS), які забезпечують моніторинг і контроль енергетичних витрат, що дозволяє знижувати споживання енергії та зменшувати витрати. Стаття також розглядає екологічні переваги інноваційних технологій. Впровадження таких систем сприяє зменшеннювикидів парникових газів і забруднюючих речовин, що позитивно впливає на довкілля і відповідає міжнародним  стандартам сталого розвитку. Технології газифікації біомаси, які перетворюють агропромислові відходи в синтетичний газ, а також новітні біотехнології для покращення ферментаційних процесів, також розглядаються як ключові елементи, що допомагають зменшити екологічний слід виробництва біопального. Досліджено приклади успішного впровадження цих технологій на реальних агропромислових підприємствах, демонструючи їхній вплив на підвищення економічної ефективності та зменшення екологічного впливу. Інвестиції в інноваційні енергозберігаючі системи не лише скорочують витрати на енергію, але й сприяють покращенню екологічної ситуації в регіонах, де здійснюється  виробництво біопального. Таким чином, стаття підкреслює, що інноваційні енергозберігаючі технології є критично важливими для досягнення сталого розвитку агропромислового комплексу, забезпечуючи не лише ефективне використання ресурсів, але й зменшення негативного впливу на довкілля, що відповідає сучасним екологічним і економічним вимогам.
Diagnosis of cholangiohepatitis in domestic cats
Authors: Morozenko D. V. , Kibkalo D. V. , Kravchenko N. O.
Published: February 2025

Feline cholangiohepatitis is common in clinical practice worldwide. Diagnosis and treatment of cats with this disease is difficult due to the ambiguity of clinical signs, the results of diagnostic studies, and the commonality of concomitant diseases. The aim of the work was to conduct a clinical and laboratory study of cats for cholangiohepatitis and to establish changes in hematological and biochemical indicators characteristic of this disease. 10 cats suffering from cholangiohepatitis, aged from 4 to 7 years, without pedigrees, were studied. Clinically healthy cats (n=10) were used as a control group. Ultrasound examination of the liver was performed using a Mindray DP-50Vet device with a microconvex sensor. In the blood, the number of erythrocytes and leukocytes, hemoglobin and hematocrit were determined using a Mindray BS-20Vet 3-DIFF hematological analyzer, blood biochemical analysis using a Mindray BS-30Vet biochemical analyzer. An increase in the size of the liver, a diffuse increase in the echogenicity of the liver parenchyma, heterogeneity of the structure of the organ, thickening and compaction of the bile ducts were found. Changes in erythrocytopoiesis in cats with cholangiohepatitis are manifested by the development of anemic syndrome, leukocytopoiesis by neutrophilic leukocytosis with a simple shift of the neutrophil nucleus to the left and relative lymphocytopenia. A decrease in the content of albumin in the blood of cats with cholangiohepatitis indicates a decrease in its synthesis in the liver, and is a manifestation of the hepatodepressive syndrome. An increase in ALT and AST in the blood of sick cats indicates the development of cytolytic syndrome, activity of GHTP and alkaline phosphatase – cholestatic syndrome. The increase in blood cholesterol can be explained by the development of cholestasis in animals.
Evaluasi Penggunaan Bahasa Indonesia Dalam Kontrak Hukum: Dampaknya Terhadap Perlindungan Hak dan Kewajiban Pihak-Pihak Yang Terlibat
Authors: Kurdi  , Yamin
Published: February 2025

Penelitian ini membahas pentingnya penggunaan Bahasa Indonesia dalam kontrak hukum di Indonesia, dengan fokus pada dampaknya terhadap pemahaman hak dan kewajiban para pihak yang terlibat. Sebagai bahasa resmi negara, Bahasa Indonesia memiliki peranan yang sangat penting dalam menciptakan kepastian hukum dan perlindungan yang adil, serta mengurangi potensi kesalahpahaman dan perselisihan dalam kontrak. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode yuridis normatif dengan pendekatan peraturan perundang-undangan dan konseptual, yang bertujuan untuk menganalisis penerapan Bahasa Indonesia dalam kontrak hukum sesuai dengan Undang-Undang Nomor 24 Tahun 2009 dan Peraturan Presiden Nomor 63 Tahun 2019. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa meskipun penggunaan Bahasa Indonesia sudah diatur secara jelas dalam perundang-undangan, masih terdapat tantangan terkait pemahaman istilah hukum yang kompleks dan penggunaan campuran bahasa dalam kontrak. Oleh karena itu, penelitian ini menyarankan untuk meningkatkan pemahaman dan penerapan penggunaan Bahasa Indonesia yang sesuai kaidah hukum guna memperkuat transparansi, keadilan, dan perlindungan hukum bagi semua pihak yang terlibat dalam kontrak hukum.
Methods of Horizontal Gene Transfer Determination Using	Phylogenetic Data
Authors: Lyubetsky Vassily A. , V'yugin Vladimir V.
Published: February 2025

A new approach for comparative analysis of multiple trees reconstructed for representative protein families is proposed. This approach is based on the hypothesis of gene duplication, gene loss and horizontal gene transfer and makes use of stochastic methods and optimization. We present a species tree of 40 prokaryotic organisms obtained by our algorithm on the basis of 132 clusters of orthologous groups of proteins (COGs) from the GenBank of the National Center for Biotechnology Information (USA). We also present a computer technology intended to determine horizontally transferred genes. Some application results of the technology, based on comparative analysis of protein and species trees, are given.
Combining Genome and Mouse Knockout Expression Data to Highlight	Binding Sites for the Transcription Factor HNF1α
Authors: Lockwood Christopher R. , Frayling Timothy M.
Published: February 2025

The identification of regulatory elements in silico is an important method for inferring function from sequence data, but it is uncertain which methods are best. We used a novel combination of expression data from a TCF1 knockout mouse (TCF1 codes for the transcription factor HNF1α), and human and mouse genome sequences, to search 2kb upstream of 28 genes downregulated in TCF1 null mice compared to wild type mice. We wrote software (http://www.BindGene.org) to search for and assign p-values to potential binding sites. This identified 8 genes as candidates for being directly regulated by HNF1α: LIPC, CRP, F13B, PRODH2, HSD17B2, SCL7A9, SLC16A7, PAH. There was evidence for conservation between human and mouse for all these regions identified as containing putative binding sites. For three of the genes identified there was experimental evidence for an HNF1α binding site. For comparison we also examined 25 genes up-regulated in TCF1 null mice; only one gene was selected and there was little evidence for conservation of this putative binding site between human and mouse. This result was consistent with HNF1α being a gene transcription activator. Another 6 up-regulated genes had unexpectedly high p-values, suggesting that possibly HNF1α sites have been suppressed from these genes. In conclusion, gene expression data from transgenic animals lacking a transcription factor can be used to identify DNA binding sites for that factor.
Application of Filter Technology in PhotoMorphogenesis Gene	Network
Authors: Smirnova Olga G. , Stepanenko Irina L.
Published: February 2025

Light regulates almost all physiological and biochemical processes in plants. Plants react to quantitative and qualitative light characteristics owing to the system of photoreceptors and a branched network for light signal transduction. Comprehensible visual representations of gene networks using of filter technology in the GeneNet system assist understanding the types of the relationships between the components inside the networks and to define their hierarchical structure.
ORTHODOX CHURCHES OF KYIV IN ANCIENT RUSSIAN TIMES: SECULAR WITHIN THE BOUNDARIES OF THE CANON
Authors: Slieptsov Oleh , Tovbych Valerii , Dyomin Mykola , Kuzmina Hanna , Haraborska Yulia
Published: February 2025

The article analyzes the aspect of the combination of canonical and secular in the ancient Russian churches of Kyiv. The influence of local artistic traditions has been proven by comparing the examples of secular motifs in Byzantine churches and the Hagia Sophia. Orthodoxy in its Byzantine version was brought to the territory with strong pre-Christian beliefs, and despite the fact that the temples conformed to all Christian canons in their appearance, the participation of local masters in the construction contributed to the departure from rigid clichés and the creation of their own regional examples of temple architecture, and not the provincial Byzantine version of temple construction. The purpose of the research was to show and analyze manifestations of secularism in ancient Russian temples, where everything was subordinated to the canon, and to find out where these traditions came from, which were preserved even in Baroque times in the form of portrait galleries of founders. The scientific novelty of the study was as follows: - the application of a systemic approach allowed to consider the image as a whole consisting of separate components and, accordingly, should be analyzed in a number of similar components; - this approach helps to determine the manifestations of originality in the secular wall painting of Kyivan Rus and to determine its differences from Byzantine traditions. The application of the system-structural analysis method made it possible to obtain new results in the study of the well-known topic of the mosaics and frescoes of the Hagia Sophia, since a fundamentally different approach was applied to the analysis of Kyiv and Byzantine samples and their comparison according to the system of indicators: artistic performance technique; the scale of the images and their location in the interior of the temple; plot composition: detailing; polychromy.
CONSTRUCTIVE AND TECHNICAL ASPECTS OF THE DESIGN OF AREAS ADJACENT TO WATER IN THE URBAN ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Shevchenko Liudmyla , Novoselchuk Natalia
Published: February 2025

Modern cities, in the landscape and planning structure of which there is a water body, have their own unique natural atmosphere, aesthetic appeal, comfortable microclimate. Such a gift of nature fills the city with a new meaning, subordinates its planning structure, and gives “hints” regarding the prospects of development. But sometimes this unique component of the city is on the verge of existence. It resists the urban expansion, fights with all its might for its “place under the sun”. The modern strategy of cities sustainable development makes it possible to direct the efforts of the city community to ensure the sustainability of the city’s development and the preservation of its unique natural resources. The article is about the experience of protecting coastal areas in the form of hydrotechnical structures, repurposing protective walls, strengthening coastal strips and retaining walls, using “green” technologies and a new method of “natural and hydrological protection”. The personal contribution of the authors to the search for a solution to safe anti-flood issues is presented. This is the use of the “riot” of natural elements to diversify the spatial solution of territories adjacent to water, using the example of a riverside park in the city of Poltava. In particular, it is the involvement of raised water in the formation of artistic and aesthetic qualities of the coastal space.
Somniferine Emerging As Lead Phytochemical From Withania somnifera to Target CASP3, JUN, and PTGS2 in Lung Cancer
Authors: Li Mingxuan , Liu Lin , Zhu Sen Lin , Zhang Cheng
Published: February 2025

This integrated research uses computational approaches to examine the lung cancer targeting potential of Withania somnifera root bioactive principles. IMPPAT and SwissADME were used to screen phytochemicals for druglikeness and bioavailability. MOLSOFT measured druglikeness, whereas ProTox 3.0 assessed toxicity. SwissTarget Prediction and GeneCards identified biological and lung cancer targets, respectively. Venn plots showed overlapping targets. Cytoscape used Cytohubba-plugin to display string database PPI and identify hub-genes. ShinyGo analysed BP, CC, MF, and KEGG pathways for enriched hub-genes. Hub genes were verified using DockThor, iMODS, and CABS-flex for docking, dynamics, and modelling. The in vitro validation of the cytotoxicity of W. somnifera was validated by MTT assay against A549 and BEAS-2B cell lines. SwissTarget Prediction found 216 target genes, which Cytoscape and the CytoHubba plugin analysed to find high-interacting phytochemicals Somniferine, Withanolide-J, and Withanolide-P. Venn diagram showed 109 common genes, therefore String-database and Cytoscape were used to create a PPI network using CASP3, JUN, and PTGS2 as hub genes. ShinyGo identified 15 enriched pathways from gene ontology and KEGG pathway studies. Molecular docking investigations using DockThor showed strong CASP3, JUN, and PTGS2 binding affinities for Somniferine, Withanolide-J, and Withanolide-P. Molecular dynamics simulations with iMODS and CABS-Flex showed that Somniferine stabilised target proteins and sustained binding. In a dose-dependent manner, the MTT results validated safety of the plant extract in normal cells while inducing selective cytotoxicity to A549 cancer cells. The findings imply that W. somnifera ingredients, notably Somniferine, may modulate lung cancer target proteins, making them viable natural therapeutic agents.
Evaluation of a New Dairy Product With Potential Functional Properties
Authors: Kowalska Malgorzata Katarzyna , Sołtysiak Honorat , Feszterova Melania , Turek Paweł , Żbikowska Anna
Published: February 2025

The article explores consumer preferences for yogurt and innovation within the dairy industry. Dairy products are valued for their nutritional benefits, and understanding consumer desires is crucial for producers. A survey of 1002 individuals revealed that 42.6% consume dairy daily, with product composition influencing over 27% of choices. Interestingly, packaging isn't a significant factor. Most respondents (80.4%) are open to trying new yogurt varieties. Using this data, a new yogurt product was developed, meeting quality standards in terms of stability and sensory appeal. The yogurt, made from 2% fat fresh milk with probiotics, vitamins, and a citrus fruit blend, received positive feedback in sensory tests. It was described as a refreshing beverage suitable for hot days. This study highlights the importance of consumer input in dairy product development and the potential for innovation to meet market demands.
Comparative HPLC Analysis and Antioxidant Properties of Different Solvent Extracts From Cinnamomum Cassia Bark
Authors: Sozer Karadagli Sumru , Agrap Borte , Lermioglu Erciyas Ferzan
Published: February 2025

Cinnamomum cassia (L.) Presl. (C.Cassia) bark contains high amounts of antioxidant phenolic compounds and flavonoids Data on various biological properties of different extracts still appear to be insufficient in the literature. In this study, we prepared three extracts from C. cassia bark using hexane, chloroform, and methanol as solvents with different polarities. The study aimed to obtain a comparative analysis of the main components and antioxidant properties of these extracts. For the evaluation of antioxidant properties, total phenolic/flavonoid contents, and DPPH radical scavenging activity were determined. We investigated possible protective effects of the extracts against H2O2-induced oxidative damage and applied WST-1 test for the evaluation of cytotoxicity. Active ingredients were analyzed by HPLC method. Extraction yield and free radical scavenging activity were found to be highest in methanol extract. In HPLC analysis of the extracts, the highest levels of cinnamaldehyde and polyphenols were found in the methanol extract. In Comet assay, all extracts provided protection against H2O2-induced DNA damage in the range of 26% to 110%. However, methanol extract was the most effective extract on lymphocytes under oxidative stress(p<0,05). In this study, high cinnamaldehyde levels were detected in the methanol extract, and it was found to be more effective than other extracts.
Translation to Serbian and Transcultural Adaptation of the Fraboni Scale of Ageism in a Population of Community Pharmacists
Authors: Šesto Sofija , Milosavljević Miloš , Janković Slobodan , Odalović Marina
Published: February 2025

The Fraboni Scale of Ageism (FSA) is a comprehensive and explicit instrument for assessing ageism, developed in Canada. However, the effectiveness of its translation into Serbian has not been previously tested. Our aim was to translate the FSA into Serbian, conduct transcultural adaptation, and evaluate its psychometric properties for assessing ageism among community pharmacists. The study adhered to the Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR) guidelines for the translation and transcultural adaptation of questionnaires. The translation was tested on a sample of 436 community pharmacists in Serbia. Reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha, and exploratory factor analysis was conducted using the generalized least squares method with varimax rotation. The final adapted Serbian translation of the FSA consists of 23 questions and demonstrates good reliability, with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.821. Factor analysis identified seven dimensions of ageism, categorized into cognitive, affective, and behavioral aspects. Factors 1, 4, and 6 (Social Separation of the Elderly, Discrimination Against the Elderly, and Avoidance of Socializing with the Elderly) pertain to the behavioral aspect of ageism. Factors 2 and 3 (Avoidance of Communication with the Elderly and Avoidance of Living with the Elderly) relate to the affective aspect, while Factors 5 and 7 address the cognitive aspect of ageism. The translated and modified FSA scale is a reliable tool for detecting and quantifying ageism among community pharmacists in Serbia.
Correlate of Savings Attitude and Generational Poverty as Mediated by Financial Literacy: Evidence from Ghana
Authors: Adu Bismark Owusu-Sekyere , Peprah Williams Kwasi
Published: February 2025

This study examines the mediating role of financial literacy between savings attitudes and generational poverty in Ghana. Generational poverty is a significant issue in Ghana, with a multidimensional poverty rate of 45.6% and a consumer expenditure poverty rate of 23.4%. The problem persists due to low financial literacy and poor savings attitudes, which hinder economic growth and development. The research employed a quantitative methodology, utilizing a series of regression analyses to test the mediation effects of financial literacy. A correlational design was adopted to assess the relationships between the variables. The study’s population included 400 individuals from the five regions in the northern part of Ghana, particularly focusing on rural areas with high poverty rates. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select participants, ensuring diverse representation. Results indicated that a positive savings attitude significantly reduces generational poverty, with financial literacy playing a substantial mediating role. The findings revealed that financial literacy accounted for 21.1% of the total effect, highlighting its importance in fostering effective saving behaviors. The study concludes that enhancing financial literacy is crucial for improving savings attitudes and reducing generational poverty. Practice recommendations include implementing comprehensive financial education programs, conducting community-based financial literacy workshops, and integrating financial literacy into school curricula. Policy recommendations advocate for a national financial literacy strategy, creating incentives for saving and supporting financial education initiatives. Theoretically, future research should incorporate financial literacy into economic models, conduct longitudinal studies to assess long-term impacts and explore cultural influences on saving behaviors.
Effect of Crude Oil Volatility Index (OVX) on the Energy Indices Return: Evidence from Wavelet Analysis
Authors: Mim Tahmina Akther , Kathiravan Chinnadurai , Maniam Balasundram
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the co-movement and causal relationships between crude oil volatility (measured by the OVX) and the returns of three Indian energy indices: BSE Oil and Gas, BSE Power, and CNX Energy. Employing statistical techniques such as descriptive statistics, ADF and Phillips-Perron unit root tests, OLS regression, and wavelet analysis, we examine the dynamic linkages between these variables. Our findings reveal a predominantly negative relationship between OVX and the returns of the analyzed energy indices. These insights provide valuable information for investors to make informed investment decisions, particularly considering the impact of weather conditions on energy markets. Furthermore, the findings offer valuable guidance for policymakers, investment analysts, and other market participants.
Exchange Rate Fluctuations and Economic Growth in Nigeria: An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Ozigbo Sylvester Aigbogun , Ekane Rapheal Ogagoghene , Ujuju Lucky Ejieh
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the relationship between exchange rate fluctuations and economic growth in Nigeria. Other specific objectives include: to find out the impact of inflation rate, interest rate and external reserve on growth of the economy. The ex-post facto research design technique was utilized. The data were obtained from the CBN Statistical Bulletin and Cointegration Error Correction Mechanism was adopted by analysing the data. The results obtained show that the exchange rate and interest rate were significant and negatively related to economic growth. Also, inflation rate and external reserve were significant but positively related to economic growth within the period covered by this study. It was therefore recommended that policy makers should not only rely on the manipulation of the macroeconomic variables to stem the tide of exchange rate fluctuations in the short run but go further to design policies that can bring about increase in production of goods and services in Nigeria. This will result in boosting the foreign exchange earnings that will ultimately improve the exchange rate of the local currency against other major currencies in the long run.
Stock Market Movements - A Comparative Analysis on Growth Patterns in India’s Leading Stock Exchange
Authors: Lawrence Arun , Thattil Gabriel Simon , Antony Tom , Ittoop Jeena
Published: February 2025

Growth in the financial market need not always get reflected in terms of earnings growth for investors. Certain sectors and certain class of investors could remain beyond the growth story. It is thus essential to examine whether growth in the Indian financial market are reflected in terms of real time gains in leading financial indices. The leading stock market institution of the country namely National Stock Exchange (NSE) and its sectoral indices from the subject matter of analysis. This study analyses the gains and performance trends of the Indian financial market over the past decade, focusing on the NSE Nifty and its key sectoral indices—Nifty IT, Nifty Energy, Nifty Infrastructure, and Nifty Bank. Utilizing secondary data from April 2014 to March 2024, the research employs month-to-month and year-to-year change benchmarks to assess index performance and applies the Concurrent Deviation Method to evaluate correlations between indices. The findings reveal overall resilience and growth, with significant recoveries following downturns such as the 2015-16 economic slump and the COVID-19 pandemic. Notable positive performances were observed across indices, with Nifty IT and Nifty Energy showing substantial gains in the aftermath of the pandemic. The study also highlights strong positive correlations among the indices, indicating interdependence in market movements. Looking forward, the Indian financial market is expected to benefit from government policies and sectoral trends, particularly in clean energy and infrastructure, while global economic conditions and investor sentiment will continue to influence market dynamics. Investors can leverage the findings of this study to make informed decisions and capitalize on strong growth potential.
Income Influence in Financial Inclusion: A Multivariate Analysis with Evidence from Central America
Authors: López Flores Walter Jeremías
Published: February 2025

Financial inclusion is a process that ensures ease of access, availability and usage of the formal financial system for all members of an economy, contributing to economic growth, poverty reduction and lower income inequality; nevertheless, there is a gap between developed countries with respect to developing economies that need to be addressed; besides, studies so far have not centered their attention in Central America. So, the purpose of this research was to determine if income has influence on the financial inclusion of the six countries of such region, through a multivariate analysis of indicators for the main formal financial services: payments, savings and credit through account and credit card ownership and access to formal loans indicators obtained from the Global Findex Database to build a one-way MANOVA model with country income level as a group factor. Results showed that there was a statistically significant difference between the country’s income group on the combined dependent variables: F(1,22) = 7.61, P = 0.0014, and that multivariate financial inclusion was higher in upper-middle income countries than in the lower-middle analyzed, recommending policy-makers to implement public policies that increase their country’s income in order to improve financial inclusion of their population.
Borsa Istanbul as an Inflation Hedge: A Post-COVID-19 Perspective
Authors: Ozdurak Caner , Çipe Bilge , Ertem Guzem Yilmaz , Bolgun Kaan Evren
Published: February 2025

This study delves into the intricate relationship between inflation and stock prices on Borsa Istanbul, with a particular focus on the turbulent post- COVID-19 era. While traditional assets like real estate have historically served as reliable inflation hedges, the emergence of Borsa Istanbul as a potential alternative warrants investigation, especially during the period 2019-2023. To assess the effectiveness of the Turkish stock market as an inflation hedge, we employ a rigorous econometric framework that extends beyond broad market indices to examine sector-specific responses. By adopting a Vector Autoregression (VAR) model, we capture the dynamic interplay between inflation and stock returns. Our analysis incorporates a comprehensive set of macroeconomic control variables spanning the period 2006Q1-2023Q4 and utilizes robust estimation techniques to account for potential structural breaks induced by the COVID-19 pandemic and unconventional economic policies. The primary objective of this study is to determine whether Borsa Istanbul stocks constitute an effective inflation hedge. In essence, our results suggest that the Turkish equity market has served as a safe haven for investors during inflationary periods. A deeper understanding of the relationship between inflation and equity markets is crucial for investors, policymakers, and financial market participants seeking to comprehend and manage inflation risks in emerging economies. In this context the study contributes to existing literature by providing empirical evidence on the inflation hedging capabilities of Borsa Istanbul stocks, particularly in the context of recent economic and geopolitical upheavals.