bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Public procurement in Malaysian local authorities: Antecedents of procedural rationality in decision making
Authors:   School of Built Environment, University College of Technology Sarawak, Malaysia, Kan Fock-Kui , Khalid Abdul-Ghani ,   School of Built Environment, University College of Technology Sarawak, Malaysia
Published: January 2022

The Malaysian public sector is oversaturated with comprehensive procurement procedures. These measures aim to deter unwarranted behaviours from public officers. Nevertheless, there have been recurring irregularities over the past decade in Malaysian local authorities, including work delays, non-compliance with regulations, wasteful purchasing, substandard workmanship etc. This study aimed to investigate factors undermining rationality in public procurement decision making from the cognitive perspective. The cognitive and behavioural science literature was reviewed systematically, focusing on procedural rationality to develop a predictive model of procurement irregularities. This research adopted a quantitative approach. A total of 289 datasets were collected from the procurement officers of Malaysian local authorities and analysed using the Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modelling technique. The empirical findings showed that work experience, prior knowledge, and accountability correlate directly with procedural rationality in procurement decision-making, which would impact the procurement outcome. The research offered insights into the decision-making behaviour of procurement officers from the cognitive psychology perspective. From the managerial standpoint, public procurement procedures should incorporate the elements of accountability, experience, and prior knowledge as part of the quality assurance and control measures.
DOCTOR’S SELF-PRESENTATION IN ONLINE COMMUNICATION
Authors: Sapozhkova Zh. Yu.
Published: January 2022

The doctor is a way of life, which includes monitoring and correction of themself presentation continuously. The physician is one of the socially significant and language-active professions. The language activity of doctors in the Internet is determined by their consciousness and communicative behavior in various genres of social media – a blog, a forum, a social network, a personal website, etc. Evidence indicates that electronic communication can improve health outcomes, for example by promoting professional development, emphasizing self-presentation, and also highlighting linguistic personality of physicians, which is based on verbal-non-verbal behavior. However, discussion of the dangers of these technologies in medicine has overshadowed the consideration of positive applications. Online communication has introduced profound questions about confidentiality, professionalism, and other issues of ethical and legal regulation for healthcare professionals. Understanding that will help to avoid mistakes, thereby maintaining a high level of the doctor's professional image.
DIAGNOSTIC CAPABILITIES OF FINE NEEDLE ASPIRATION OF LYMPH NODES METASTASES OF PRIMARY PULMONARY LYMPHOEPITHELIAL CARCINOMAS
Authors: Kravtsov V. G.
Published: January 2022

Introduction. Primary pulmonary lymphoepithelial carcinoma is a poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma admixed with variable amounts of lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate, frequently associated with EBV. It is a rare cancer and have a better prognosis than other non-small cell lung cancer. The tumor can mimic metastatic non-keratinizing SCC of the naso-pharynx, poorly differentiated non-small cell carcinoma and NUT carcinoma arising in the lung, and non-Hodgkin lymphomas.
Materials and methods. A 75-year-old man presented with peripheral mass of left lower lobe, maximal diameter was 5.1 cm, involving lingula and medial pleura, with mediastinal, and retroperitoneal lymphadenopathy revealed by computer tomography. Fine needle aspiration-EBUS was performed from hilar and interlobar lymph nodes. Papanicolaou smears and cell blocks were prepared. Additional CT-guided cor-needle biopsy and FNA were performed from lung lesion later.
Results. A few large malignant epithelial cells, consistent with non-small lung cancer, were found on a background of lymphocytes in fine-needle aspiration from lymph nodes. Immunostain results: Pan-CK (AE1/AE3), p63 and Ki67 were positive in malignant cells, leukocyte common antigen (CD45) was positive in lymphocytes (negative in tumor cells), and negative markers were TTF1, chromogranin and synaptophysin. Cytological diagnosis was metastatic non-small lung cancer, favor squamous cell carcinoma. Biopsy and aspiration from left lung showed syncytial groups of large malignant epithelial cells with scant cytoplasm and prominent nucleoli on a background of prominent inflammatory infiltrate,consistent with lymphoepithelial carcinoma.
Conclusion. It is impossible to correctly diagnose metastasis of lymphoepithelial carcinoma in lymph node by FNA only without FNA or biopsy of primary lesion, because cytological features and immunostains are identical to non-keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma.
LABORATORY DIAGNOSTICS OF MALE INFERTILITY. BIOMARKERS AND METHODS. Part II
Authors: Sapozhkova Zh. Yu. , Milovanova G. A. , Patsap O. I.
Published: January 2022

The new paradigm have been arise concerning to samples, markers and methods for assessment of male infertility. Nowadays, a sample “semen” and “sperm sediment” take a key role in examination and management of the subfertile couple. The advantages of sample “semen” such as non-invasive painless procedure as well as the wider range of diagnostic findings by number of methods (cytology, molecular and cultural) highlight the increasly importance of this diagnostic approach in comparison with conventional ones – prostate secretion and urethral scraping which obtained by invasive procedures – by massage and damaging a mucus membrane, respectively. According to the Russian register this review also presents the current situation with the work list of kits and devices for assessment of male infertility and inflammatory of male accessory glands.
INVESTIGATION PARAMETERS ULTRASONIC DEVICE ON PHASED ARRAYS. FOCUSING MODES FOR ULTRASONIC DEVICE TYPE OF OMNISCAN
Authors: Titov V. Yu.
Published: January 2022

The article is devoted to possibilities of regular focusing of Omniscan device on phased arrays. Questions are raised about evaluation of testing results when using linear and sector scan-ning with different focus parameters. The question of size near-field for phased arrays and asso-ciated choice of focus mode is discussed. The article is based on experiments conducted on samples with artificial reflectors at the same size, but different in type: a non-directional reflector (a side-drill hole) and a directional reflector (a flat-bottomed reflector), located at the same depth. The study was conducted for transducers with different frequencies. Families of curves of the signal amplitude dependence are obtained: on depth reflector, on focus depth setting, and on type reflector. The results emphasize need for precise focusing with-in the near-field of the transducer for small thicknesses or shallow depth of occurrence of discontinuities, and large variability in choice of focusing for depths in far-field. The study notes a significant difference in values of depth reflector at different focusses at a fixed position of transducer. In this article, in addition to considering possibility of focusing a flaw detector with phased arrays, the focus is on interpretation of results and reliability of testing in the analysis and comparison data. An integral part of the technological testing protocol for phased array is the depth of focus and the type of scanning. The obtained data do not depend on the frequency of transducer, which means that conclusions are applicable to general range of flaw detectors on phased arrays.
OPTICAL-ELECTRONIC INSTRUMENT FOR MEASURING THE RADIATION COEFFICIENT AND TEMPERATURE OF THE CONTROLLED OBJECT
Authors: Shilin A. N. , Mac B. V. , Kuznetsova N. S.
Published: January 2022

The operating principle of optoelectronic instruments for measuring the temperature of the heated products based on the measurement of the radiation flux from the heated product, which depends on the temperature and emissivity of the surface material. The main error of such optocal-electronic devices is the methodological component, which is due to the variability of the radiation coefficient of the surface of the product material. The radiation coefficient of an object depends on the material, the surface state of the material, and the temperature. In the measurement process, it is difficult to take this dependence into account, since there are no exact analytical expressions of these dependencies. In practice, the radiation coefficient of the surface of material the product is determined approximately using reference books. For a more accurate determination of the radiation coefficient, a preliminary study is necessary, which requires more complex equipment than a device for measuring the radiation flux from a heated body. To solve this problem, there are empirical generalized equations of the functional dependences of the radiation coefficient. The article analyzes the errors in determining the radiation coefficient using generalized equations in comparison with experimental data. The analysis indicates that the error in determining the radiation coefficient can reach large values that may not meet the requirements of consumers. To improve the accuracy of measuring the temperature of the object, a device has been developed that implements the method of sample signals. The developed device predetermines the radiation coefficient of the measured product at a certain temperature and introduces a correction when measuring the temperature.
PROBLEMS OF HIGH-SPEED RAIL FLAW DETECTION
Authors: Markov A. A. , Maksimova E. A.
Published: January 2022

The main factors that reduce the quality of non-destructive testing of rails during high-speed scanning are considered. The most significant factors are the quality and volume of obtaining primary information about the condition of the monitored rails. It is shown that, at high-speed (up to 120 km/h) control, the compression of the defect location zone is clearly manifested and the length of the areas with acoustic contact violations increases. Analysis of real flaw diagrams of diagnostic complexes shows that with an increase in the scanning speed, the length of the location zone even from such large reflectors in the rails, such as bolt holes, significantly decreases. The average length of the instability zone of the bottom signal over the welded joints of the rails also increases significantly. The compression of the location zones of the reflectors can be compensated by expanding the aperture of the ultrasonic transducers. Improving the quality of the acoustic contact requires further improvement of the design of the search system and the systems for supplying the contacting liquid to the transducers, depending on the scanning speed. The Magnetic Flux Leakage(MFL) method can effectively detect defects in the rail head up to 20 mm deep at high speeds. Mathematical modeling of the magnetic flux in the controlled rails is performed. This allows us to start creating a new rail magnetization system with an increased interpole distance for high speeds. The introduction of modern methods for processing a significant flow of flaw detection information using neural networks requires the formation of a large sample base of training signals from real defects in different sections of rails. This is a complex task in its own right. For the first time, the issues of checking the operability of flaw detection devices in real control conditions are raised. Testing of ultrasonic equipment at high speeds is proposed to be carried out with the help of special electronic-acoustic simulators of defects. They are installed on different surfaces of the rails on which the diagnostic complexes pass. Operational quality control of ultrasonic rail inspection can be evaluated by statistical analysis of signal parameters from structural elements (bolt holes). The choice between the monitoring performance and the required reliability of detecting rail defects must be made based on the results of real passes of diagnostic complexes at operating scanning speeds.
ACTIVE CONTROL OF THE TOPOLOGICAL PARAMETERS OF ISLAND CATALYSTS WHEN SOLID OXIDE ELECTROLYTES OF FUEL CELLS ARE DEPOSITED ON THE SURFACE
Authors: Obraztsov D. V. , Dutov M. N. , Chernyshov V. N.
Published: January 2022

The method of active technological control of topological parameters of synthesized island catalysts on solid oxide fuel cell electrolytes is considered. The proposed method makes it possible to obtain a catalyst with a maximum active area and high adhesion to a solid oxide electrolyte, which contributes to an increase in the power of the fuel cell and an increase in the operational life. The models of two stages of formation of island films under vacuum and magnetron sputtering presented in this paper were used as a theoretical basis for the creation of a method for active technological control and control of the synthesis of island catalyst in solid oxide fuel cells. Experimental testing of the developed method has shown its efficiency and effectiveness in the creation of solid oxide fuel cells.
RISK ASSESSMENT OF STOCKS PORTFOLIO THROUGH ENSEMBLE ARMA-GARCH AND VALUE AT RISK (CASE STUDY: INDF.JK AND ICBP.JK STOCK PRICE)
Authors: Tarno Tarno , Trimono Trimono , Maruddani Di Asih I , Wilandari Yuciana , Utami Rianti Siwi
Published: January 2022

Stocks portfolio is a form of investment that can be used to minimize the risk of loss. In a stock portfolio, the Value at Risk (VaR) can be predicted through the portfolio return. If portfolio return variance is heteroskedastic risk prediction can be done by using VaR with ARIMA-GARCH or Ensemble ARIMA-GARCH model approach. Furthermore, the accuracy of VaR is tested through Backtesting test. In this study, the portfolio is formed from PT Indofood CBP Sukses Makmur (ICBP.JK) and PT Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk (INDF.JK) stocks from 01/01/2018 to 07/30/2021. The results showed that the best model is  Ensemble ARMA-GARCH with MSE 1.3231×10-6. At confidence level of 95% and 1 day holding period, the VaR of the Ensemble ARMA-GARCH was -0.0213. Based on the Backtesting test, it is proven to be very accurate to predict the value of loss risk because the value of the Violation Ratio (VR) is equal to 0.
Experiencias de éxito en la transición de lo presencial a lo remoto en la educación superior
Authors: Montalvo Castro Alberto , Sierra Bonilla Yenny Paola , Balaguera Ascencio Edgar , Coral Campaña Jairo Andrés , Longas Flórez Yaneyda Zulay , Martínez Saavedra José Hermes , Arenas Torres Fredy Yesid , Melo Casas Angie Rocío , Morales García John Fredy , Serrano León Yeimmy Katherine , Zapata Lesmes Angela Cristina , Rendón Fernandez Margarita Rosa , Herrera García Luis Orlando , Garay Garay Fredy Ramón
Published: January 2022

En este libro, el lector encontrará las experiencias de éxito de las universidades pertenecientes a la Red de Departamentos de Ciencias Básicas, donde se narran las dinámicas de adaptación, transformación y, sobre todo, de buenas prácticas por parte del sistema educativo superior en torno a la enseñanza y el aprendizaje de las ciencias básicas en el contexto de la pandemia. Los capítulos que estructuran este libro no son solo relatos de éxito; todo lo contrario, son experiencias de investigación en educación superior sobre cómo el sistema educativo se adapta, se transforma y a partir de ello enriquece los contextos, siempre en busca de cumplir los objetivos de formar profesionales con competencias científicas e investigativas para enfrentar situaciones problémicas no vividas, impensadas, e inimaginadas, como lo fue la pandemia causada por la propagación mundial del COVID-19.
Exploring the specification of educational compatibility of virtual reality within a technology acceptance model
Authors: Kemp Andrew , Palmer Edward , Strelan Peter , Thompson Helen
Published: January 2022

This study investigated the specification of educational compatibility within a technology acceptance model (TAM) suited to engaging educational technologies. Attitudes towards virtual reality (VR) for learning was used to test the experimental model. One hundred and seventy-nine valid survey responses were collected from 517 potential participants with the majority from first-year university students. The independent variables were educational compatibility, cognitive engagement, social influence, system attributes, perceived anxiety and facilitating conditions. Exploratory factor analysis showed that educational compatibility and attitude were collinear, and therefore were combined into one construct. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the combined educational compatibility-attitude construct and perceived usefulness were not discriminant. Two structural models were therefore compared: one where educational compatibility-attitude items were incorporated within perceived usefulness, and another where educational compatibility-attitude items were excluded entirely. The results showed that incorporating educational compatibility-attitude items within perceived usefulness affected the influence of cognitive engagement and system attributes on perceived usefulness, though overall model power was unchanged. The results suggested that (a) educational compatibility and attitude could be redundant, and (b) incorporating educational compatibility into perceived usefulness may help specify educationally focused TAMs.
Implications for practice or policy:

Researchers may regard educational compatibility and attitude to be redundant and exclude them from TAMs as separate constructs.
Researchers could consider tailoring the perceived usefulness construct to make it more specific to the educational context, for example by including one or more educational compatibility items.
Wprowadzenie
Authors: Główczyński Maciej , Wronkowski Adam , Staszewska Sylwia , Bajerski Artur
Published: January 2022

Współczesna geografia społeczna koncentruje się na badaniu procesów, które prowadzą do ubóstwa, powstawania nierówności społecznych oraz upadku systemów społeczno-ekonomicznych. Prace dotyczące tego zagadnienia skupiają się także na identyfikacji i analizie aktywności przestrzennych i społecznych człowieka w środowisku miejskim, co wiąże się z rozwojem nurtu behawioralnego w geografii, którego głównym przedmiotem badań jest zrozumienie mechanizmów aktywności człowieka w otaczającej go przestrzeni. W kręgu zainteresowań geografów społecznych są zarówno zachowania pojedynczych jednostek, jak i ich kontekst społeczny, kulturowy oraz ekonomiczny. Współczesne badania behawioralne w geografii społecznej koncentrują się wokół takich zagadnień, jak: percepcja środowiska, podejmowanie decyzji i dokonywanie wyborów, motywacje i preferencje, zachowania indywidualne i grupowe w przestrzeni. Nurt behawioralny rozwija się nie tylko w geografii. Zarówno socjologowie, psychologowie, etnologowie, jak i urbaniści badają z różnych perspektyw zachowania człowieka.
Study on observation system of seismic forward prospecting in tunnel: A case on tailrace tunnel of Wudongde hydropower station
Authors: Yang Senlin , Cao Hongyi , Zhang Yi , Chen Lei , Xu Xinji , Song Jie , Xu Lei
Published: January 2022

Seismic method is a major approach for detecting the seismic geological features ahead of the tunnel, understanding the distribution of unfavorable geology, and ensuring the safety of tunnel construction. Observation system is the key for seismic detection, many studies have been conducted to optimize the observation system; however, most of them focused on the surface seismic investigation and numerical simulation rather than in tunnel field environment (limited aperture and full space environment). How to obtain better wavefield information with limited observation aperture is a great challenge. In this study numerical simulation and instrumental techniques (GPR, DC, etc.) were implemented to further check the result of seismic detection at the 1# tailrace tunnel at the Wudongde hydropower station. In the field case, observation detectors were arranged spatially in the tunnel and source points were placed in four ways: linearly along a single side, on the tunnel face, in front of the detectors, and behind the detectors. Then, after data acquisition, the data processing is conducted to carry out the migration results. The imaging results indicate that the observation system with sources and detectors in liner arrangement (with equal interval) helps to suppress artifacts, further supporting the advantages of spatial observation system with liner observation line (detectors). Moreover, the study provides suggestions for geological prospecting in similar tunnel projects.
Effect of outlet impeller diameter on performance prediction of centrifugal pump under single-phase and cavitation flow conditions
Authors: Al-Obaidi Ahmed Ramadhan , Qubian Ali
Published: January 2022

In this current study, the transient numerical calculations using CFD code are carried out under different outlet impeller diameters for the flow field within a centrifugal pump under single-phase and cavitation conditions. Both qualitative and quantitative analyses are carried out on all of these results in order to better understand the flow structure within a centrifugal pump. Also, the investigations using different outlet impeller diameters configurations relating to the static pressure, velocity magnitude, vapour volume fraction variations, as well as pressure fluctuations in both time and frequency domain at the impeller and volute of the pump are analysed. Velocity and static pressure variations of the pump under different outlet impeller diameters range (200, 210 and 220 mm) are investigated. Reliable model is developed and validated, at various pump operating conditions, to analyse the characteristics of pressure fluctuations in both time and frequency domain. Cavitation occurrence, under different outlet impeller diameters and flow rates, are detected and correlated, using a CFD model (volume fraction distributions). Based on the developed model’s findings, at the set operating conditions ranges, the distribution and impact (cavitation and head-wises) of both the pressure and velocity are analysed. The average pressure fluctuation in the volute for do = 210 mm is higher than for do = 200 mm by about 6.74%, also the maximum pressure fluctuation for do = 220 mm is higher than for do = 210 mm by around 7.4%. Furthermore, the maximum pressure fluctuation in the impeller for do = 210 mm is higher than for do = 200 mm by 12.48%, also for do = 220 mm is higher than for do = 210 mm by 10.8%. The developed CFD models are proved valuable tools in identifying and optimizing the pump performance and characterization. The head for when do = 220 mm is higher than for when do = 200 mm under both single-phase and cavitation conditions by around 14.13% and 14.69%. The maximum pressure fluctuation for do = 200 mm is lower than for do = 210 mm by 41.58%. Furthermore, the maximum pressure fluctuation at the impeller for do = 220 mm is higher than the two models. There is a small clearance between the impeller and the volute for this model, leading to the pressure fluctuation amplitudes being higher than the other above models.
Optimal balancing of time-dependent confounders for marginal structural models
Authors: Kallus Nathan , Santacatterina Michele
Published: January 2022

Marginal structural models (MSMs) can be used to estimate the causal effect of a potentially time-varying treatment in the presence of time-dependent confounding via weighted regression. The standard approach of using inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) can be sensitive to model misspecification and lead to high-variance estimates due to extreme weights. Various methods have been proposed to partially address this, including covariate balancing propensity score (CBPS) to mitigate treatment model misspecification, and truncation and stabilized-IPTW (sIPTW) to temper extreme weights. In this article, we present kernel optimal weighting (KOW), a convex-optimization-based approach that finds weights for fitting the MSMs that flexibly balance time-dependent confounders while simultaneously penalizing extreme weights, directly addressing the above limitations. We further extend KOW to control for informative censoring. We evaluate the performance of KOW in a simulation study, comparing it with IPTW, sIPTW, and CBPS. We demonstrate the use of KOW in studying the effect of treatment initiation on time-to-death among people living with human immunodeficiency virus and the effect of negative advertising on elections in the United States.
Aqueous extract of Pedalium murex D. Royen ex L. leafy stem protects against lead induced testicular toxicity in Wistar rats
Authors: Dossou-Agoin Gerard Bessan , Gbankoto Adam , Azonbakin Simon , Osseni Razack , Yemoa Achille , Lalèyè Anatole
Published: January 2022

Objectives

Lead exposure seriously impairs male reproductive function. The protective capacity of Pedalium murex leafy stem and fruit aqueous extracts against lead testicular toxicity is evaluated to find herbals drugs able to improve semen quality.

Methods

Phytochemical screening were performed according to classical methods. Twenty four male rats were divided into four groups of six rats each and received the following treatments via oral route: distilled water; 0.2% lead acetate in drinking water; 0.2% lead acetate in drinking water with 400 mg/kg P. murex aqueous leafy stem extract; 0.2% leaded water with 400 mg/kg P. murex aqueous fruit extract. Treatments were administered for 70 days. Body and reproductive organs weights, sperm parameters and testicular histological sections of each group were examined.

Results

Flavonoids, tannins, coumarins, alkaloids, and lignans were found in both extracts. Lead intoxication reduced sperm motility and count but increased the percentage of morphologically abnormal sperms. The germinal epithelium of seminiferous tubules histoarchitecture was disorganized by lead. The leafy stem extract was effective in reducing lead induced testicular disruption whereas fruit has not shown any beneficial effect.

Conclusions

P. murex leafy stem aqueous extract is effective against semen alterations caused by lead.
Pulse width shortening combinations (PWSC) for ultra-dense WDM systems and calculation of PWSE
Authors: Kumar Rahul , Sappal Amandeep Singh
Published: January 2022

Optical communication systems introduced paradigm shift in the forte of data transmission at higher speeds and over longer distances where, on contrary electrical transmission systems failed due to higher amplitude degradation, interferences and lower bandwidths. However, pulse width increase (PWI) in the optical fiber limits the overall distance reach and also introduces more bit errors which needs to addressed. So far, pulse width shortening fibers (PFs) and fiber Bragg grating (FG) used individually in most of the reported studies, however pulse width shortening (PWS) took either high cost (in PFs) or lower PWS efficiency (PWSE) (in FG). Therefore, in this research manuscript, we made emphasis on the combined PWS effects of diverse techniques such as optical phase conjugation (OC), FG and PFs in ultra-dense wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) system. Total link length of 400 km has been covered in 128 channels ultra dense wavelength division multiplexing (UDWDM) system at 10 Gbps by incorporating diverse combined organized placements of FG, OC and PFs such as FG-PF, OC-PF and FG-PF-OC. Results revealed that economical and maximum PWSE arrangement for proposed system is FG-PF-OC.
Lymphatic osteopathic manipulative treatment reduces duration of deltoid soreness after Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine
Authors: Marshall Sylvia , Winter Sara , Capobianco John D.
Published: January 2022

Pfizer-BioNTech BNT162b2 is one of the three U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved vaccines for the prevention of COVID-19. Its most common side effect, injection site pain, occurs because of locally recruited inflammatory mediators and is mitigated by the lymphatic system. Side effects may discourage individuals from receiving vaccines; therefore, reducing the duration of injection site pain can promote vaccination compliance. Osteopathic manipulative treatments (OMT) can directly affect the physiology underlying muscle soreness; however, there is currently no literature that supports the use of OMT in this scenario. In this case report, an otherwise healthy male presented with acute left deltoid soreness after receiving the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. The pain began 5 h prior to the visit. Three hours after being treated with lymphatic OMT, the severity of the pain was significantly reduced and was alleviated 8h after onset in comparison to the median duration of 24–48 h. He received his second dose 3 weeks later. This case report can provide future studies with the groundwork for further investigating the role of OMT in treating postvaccination muscle soreness, which can improve patient satisfaction and potentially promote vaccination compliance.
Language politics in Nepal: A socio-historical overview
Authors: Gautam Bhim Lal
Published: January 2022

This paper aims to outline the language politics in Nepal by focusing on the influences and expansions shifted from Global North to the Global South. Based on a small-scale case study of interviews and various political movements and legislative documents, this paper discusses linguistic diversity and multilingualism, globalization, and their impacts on Nepal’s linguistic landscapes. It finds that the language politics in Nepal has been shifted and changed throughout history because of different governmental and political changes. Different ideas have emerged because of globalization and neoliberal impacts which are responsible for language contact, shift, and change in Nepalese society. It concludes that the diversified politics and multilingualism in Nepal have been functioning as a double-edged sword, which on the one hand promotes and preserves linguistic and cultural diversity and on the other hand squeezes the size of diversity by vitalizing the Nepali and English languages through contact and globalization.
Half-space albedo problem for the Anlı-Güngör scattering function
Authors: Bozkır Ali Zafer , Türeci Recep Gökhan , Sahni Dinesh Chandra
Published: January 2022

One speed, time-independent and homogeneous medium neutron transport equation is solved for second order scattering using the Anlı-Güngör scattering function which is a recently investigated scattering function. The scattering function depends on Legendre polynomials and the t parameter which is defined on the interval [−1,  1]. A half-space albedo problem is examined with the FN method and the recently developed SVD method. Albedo values are calculated with two methods and tabulated. Thus, the albedo values for the Anlı-Güngör scattering are compared with these methods. The behaviour of the scattering function is similar to İnönü’s scattering function according to calculated results.
Showing Mathematical Flies the Way Out of Foundational Bottles: The Later Wittgenstein as a Forerunner of Lakatos and the Philosophy of Mathematical Practice
Authors: Pérez-Escobar José Antonio
Published: January 2022

This work explores the later Wittgenstein’s philosophy of mathematics in relation to Lakatos’ philosophy of mathematics and the philosophy of mathematical practice. I argue that, while the philosophy of mathematical practice typically identifies Lakatos as its earliest of predecessors, the later Wittgenstein already developed key ideas for this community a few decades before. However, for a variety of reasons, most of this work on philosophy of mathematics has gone relatively unnoticed. Some of these ideas and their significance as precursors for the philosophy of mathematical practice will be presented here, including a brief reconstruction of Lakatos’ considerations on Euler’s conjecture for polyhedra from the lens of late Wittgensteinian philosophy. Overall, this article aims to challenge the received view of the history of the philosophy of mathematical practice and inspire further work in this community drawing from Wittgenstein’s late philosophy.
Cerebellar ataxia, neuropathy and vestibular areflexia syndrome (CANVAS): from clinical diagnosis towards genetic testing
Authors: Thieme Andreas , Depienne Christel , Timmann Dagmar
Published: January 2022

The cerebellar ataxia, neuropathy and vestibular areflexia syndrome (CANVAS) is a late-onset and recessively inherited ataxia. For many years, CANVAS has been diagnosed based on the clinical phenotype. Only recently, a large biallelic pentanucleotide repeat expansion in the replication factor C subunit 1 (RFC1) gene has been identified as the underlying genetic cause for the large majority of CANVAS cases. Subsequently, other phenotypes such as ataxia with chronic cough, incomplete CANVAS and MSA-C-like phenotypes have been associated with biallelicRFC1repeat expansions. Because of this heterogeneity it has been suggested to change the name of the disease to “RFC1 disease”. Chronic cough is characteristic and can precede neurological symptoms by years or decades. In the neurological examination signs of cerebellar, sensory, and vestibular ataxia are frequently observed. Nerve conduction studies usually show absent or markedly reduced sensory nerve action potentials. On brain MRI cerebellar degeneration and spinal cord alterations are common. In later disease stages more widespread neurodegeneration with additional involvement of the brainstem and basal ganglia is possible. As yet, the exact incidence ofRFC1-associated neurological diseases remains uncertain although first studies suggest thatRFC1-related ataxia is common. Moreover, the pathophysiological mechanisms caused by the large biallelic pentanucleotide repeat expansions inRFC1remain elusive. Future molecular and genetic research as well as natural history studies are highly desirable to pave the way towards personalized treatment approaches.
X-linked dystonia-parkinsonism: over and above a repeat disorder
Authors: Pozojevic Jelena , Cruz Joseph Neos , Westenberger Ana
Published: January 2022

X-linked dystonia-parkinsonism (XDP) is an adult-onset neurodegenerative movement disorder, caused by a founder retrotransposon insertion in an intron of the TAF1 gene. This insertion contains a polymorphic hexanucleotide repeat (CCCTCT)n, the length of which inversely correlates with the age at disease onset (AAO) and other clinical parameters, aligning XDP with repeat expansion disorders. Nevertheless, many other pathogenic mechanisms are conceivably at play in XDP, indicating that in contrast to other repeat disorders, the (CCCTCT)n repeat may not be the actual (or only) disease cause. Here, we summarize and discuss genetic and molecular aspects of XDP, highlighting the role of the hexanucleotide repeat in age-related disease penetrance and expressivity.
Exciton-dielectric mode coupling in MoS2 nanoflakes visualized by cathodoluminescence
Authors: Vu Dung Thi , Matthaiakakis Nikolaos , Saito Hikaru , Sannomiya Takumi
Published: January 2022

Two-dimensional (2D) transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs), possessing unique exciton luminescence properties, have attracted significant attention for use in optical and electrical devices. TMDCs are also high refractive index materials that can strongly confine the electromagnetic field in nanoscale dimensions when patterned into nanostructures, thus resulting in complex light emission that includes exciton and dielectric resonances. Here, we use cathodoluminescence (CL) to experimentally visualize the emission modes of single molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanoflakes and to investigate luminescence enhancement due to dielectric resonances in nanoscale dimensions, by using a scanning transmission electron microscope. Specifically, we identify dielectric modes whose resonant wavelength is sensitive to the shape and size of the nanoflake, and exciton emission peaks whose energies are insensitive to the geometry of the flakes. Using a four-dimensional CL method and boundary element method simulations, we further theoretically and experimentally visualize the emission polarization and angular emission patterns, revealing the coupling of the exciton and dielectric resonant modes. Such nanoscopic observation provides a detailed understanding of the optical responses of MoS2 including modal couplings of excitons and dielectric resonances which play a crucial role in the development of energy conversion devices, single-photon emitters, and nanophotonic circuits with enhanced light-matter interactions.
Machine–learning-enabled metasurface for direction of arrival estimation
Authors: Huang Min , Zheng Bin , Cai Tong , Li Xiaofeng , Liu Jian , Qian Chao , Chen Hongsheng
Published: January 2022

Metasurfaces, interacted with artificial intelligence, have now been motivating many contemporary research studies to revisit established fields, e.g., direction of arrival (DOA) estimation. Conventional DOA estimation techniques typically necessitate bulky-sized beam-scanning equipment for signal acquisition or complicated reconstruction algorithms for data postprocessing, making them ineffective for in-situ detection. In this article, we propose a machine-learning-enabled metasurface for DOA estimation. For certain incident signals, a tunable metasurface is controlled in sequence, generating a series of field intensities at the single receiving probe. The perceived data are subsequently processed by a pretrained random forest model to access the incident angle. As an illustrative example, we experimentally demonstrate a high-accuracy intelligent DOA estimation approach for a wide range of incident angles and achieve more than 95% accuracy with an error of less than

0.5
°

$0.5{}^{\circ}$

. The reported strategy opens a feasible route for intelligent DOA detection in full space and wide band. Moreover, it will provide breakthrough inspiration for traditional applications incorporating time-saving and equipment-simplified majorization.
A study on design optimization for compressor blisks
Authors: Mogullapally Venkateshwarlu , Kumar Sanju , Rajeevalochanam Bukkapatna Ananthappa , Rao Rashmi
Published: January 2022

Bladed disks are important components of gas turbine engine. Rotor disk spool drum assemblies of gas turbine engine constitute 20–25% of total engine weight. Increasing thrust-to-weight ratio and engine life is paramount for designers. Blisk reduces significantly weight of rotor, compared against conventional disks for aero engines. This paper brings out specific challenges faced while re-designing bladed disk into blisks including structural integrity aspects under various operating loads. This paper presents a case study on re-design of typical compressor bladed disk into a blisk, without changing the flow path or airfoil configuration, within space constraints. Weight reduction of rotor disk is carried out using shape optimization technique. Blisk configuration is derived from existing bladed disk general arrangement. This paper describes methodology of weight optimization of blisk using ‘HyperStudy’ tool considering static and dynamic 3D models with ANSYS solver. APDL fatigue life macro is developed for fatigue life prediction, using strain-life approach. In this paper 3D bladed disk, baseline and optimized 3D blisk modal analyses results are used to ensure minimum interferences for engine operating conditions. The developed methodology for optimization can be appreciated by significant weight reduction (30%), while meeting design criteria and increased fatigue life.
Oxytocin Facilitates Allomaternal Behavior under Stress in Laboratory Mice
Authors: Tsuneoka Yousuke , Yoshihara Chihiro , Ohnishi Ryuko , Yoshida Sachine , Miyazawa Eri , Yamada Masanobu , Horiguchi Kazuhiko , Young W. Scott , Nishimori Katsuhiko , Kato Tadafumi , Kuroda Kumi O.
Published: January 2022

Oxytocin (Oxt) controls reproductive physiology and various kinds of social behaviors, but the exact contribution of Oxt to different components of parental care still needs to be determined. Here, we illustrate the neuroanatomical relations of the parental nurturing-induced neuronal activation with magnocellular Oxt neurons and fibers in the medial preoptic area (MPOA), the brain region critical for parental and alloparental behaviors. We used genetically-targeted mouse lines forOxt,Oxt receptor(Oxtr),vasopressin receptor 1a(Avpr1a),vasopressin receptor 1b(Avpr1b), andthyrotropin-releasing hormone(Trh) to systematically examine the role of Oxt-related signaling in pup-directed behaviors. TheOxtr-Avpr1a-Avpr1btriple knock-out (TKO), andOxt-Trh-Avpr1a-Avpr1bquadruple KO (QKO) mice were grossly healthy and fertile, except for their complete deficiency in milk ejection and modest deficiency in parturition secondary to maternal loss of theOxtorOxtrgene. In our minimal stress conditions, pup-directed behaviors in TKO and QKO mothers and fathers, virgin females and males were essentially indistinguishable from those of their littermates with other genotypes. However,OxtrKO virgin females did show decreased pup retrieval in the pup-exposure assay performed right after restraint stress. This stress vulnerability in theOxtrKO was abolished by the additionalAvpr1bKO. The general stress sensitivity, as measured by plasma cortisol elevation after restraint stress or by the behavioral performance in the open field (OF) and elevated plus maze (EPM), were not altered in theOxtrKO but were reduced in theAvpr1bKO females, indicating that the balance of neurohypophysial hormones affects the outcome of pup-directed behaviors.
Dendritic Morphology of an Inhibitory Retinal Interneuron Enables Simultaneous Local and Global Synaptic Integration
Authors: Hartveit Espen , Veruki Margaret Lin , Zandt Bas-Jan
Published: January 2022

Amacrine cells, inhibitory interneurons of the retina, feature synaptic inputs and outputs in close proximity throughout their dendritic trees, making them notable exceptions to prototypical somato-dendritic integration with output transmitted via axonal action potentials. The extent of dendritic compartmentalization in amacrine cells with widely differing dendritic tree morphology, however, is largely unexplored. Combining compartmental modeling, dendritic Ca2+imaging, targeted microiontophoresis and multielectrode patch-clamp recording (voltage and current clamp, capacitance measurement of exocytosis), we investigated integration in the AII amacrine cell, a narrow-field electrically coupled interneuron that participates in multiple, distinct microcircuits. Physiological experiments were performed within vitroslices prepared from retinas of both male and female rats. We found that the morphology of the AII enables simultaneous local and global integration of inputs targeted to different dendritic regions. Local integration occurs within spatially restricted dendritic subunits and narrow time windows and is largely unaffected by the strength of electrical coupling. In contrast, global integration across the dendritic tree occurs over longer time periods and is markedly influenced by the strength of electrical coupling. These integrative properties enable AII amacrines to combine local control of synaptic plasticity with location-independent global integration. Dynamic inhibitory control of dendritic subunits is likely to be of general importance for amacrine cells, including cells with small dendritic trees, as well as for inhibitory interneurons in other regions of the CNS.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTOur understanding of synaptic integration is based on the prototypical morphology of a neuron with multiple dendrites and a single axon at opposing ends of a cell body. Many neurons, notably retinal amacrine cells, are exceptions to this arrangement, and display input and output synapses interspersed along their dendritic branches. In the large dendritic trees of some amacrine cells, such arrangements can give rise to multiple computational subunits. Other amacrine cells, with small dendritic trees, have been assumed to operate as single computational units. Here, we report the surprising result that despite a small dendritic tree, the AII amacrine cell simultaneously performs local integration of synaptic inputs (over smaller dendritic subregions) and global integration across the entire cell.
Oral estrogen leads to falsely low concentrations of estradiol in a common immunoassay
Authors: Cirrincione Lauren R , Crews Bridgit O , Dickerson Jane A , Krasowski Matthew D , Rongitsch Jessica , Imborek Katherine L , Goldstein Zil , Greene Dina N
Published: January 2022

Objectives

Recently, an estradiol immunoassay manufacturer (Beckman Coulter, USA) issued an ‘important product notice’ alerting clinical laboratories that their assay (Access Sensitive Estradiol) was not indicated for patients undergoing exogenous estradiol treatment. The objective of this analysis was to evaluate immunoassay bias relative to liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) in transgender women and to examine the influence of unconjugated estrone on measurements.

Design

Cross-sectional secondary analysis.

Methods

Estradiol concentrations from 89 transgender women were determined by 3 immunoassays (Access Sensitive Estradiol (‘New BC’) and Access Estradiol assays (‘Old BC’), Beckman Coulter; Estradiol III assay (‘Roche’), Roche Diagnostics) and LC-MS/MS. Bias was evaluated with and without adjustment for estrone concentrations. The number of participants who shifted between three estradiol concentration ranges for each immunoassay vs LC-MS/MS (>300 pg/mL, 70–300 pg/mL, and <70 pg/mL) was calculated.

Results

The New BC assay had the largest magnitude overall bias (median: −34%) and was −40%, −22%, and −10%, among participants receiving tablet, patch, or injection preparations, respectively. Overall bias was −12% and +17% for the Roche and Old BC assays, respectively. When measured with the New BC assay, 18 participants shifted to a lower estradiol concentration range (vs 9 and 10 participants based on Roche or Old BC assays, respectively). Adjustment for estrone did not minimize bias.

Conclusions

Immunoassay measurement of estradiol in transgender women may lead to falsely decreased concentrations that have the potential to affect management. A multidisciplinary health care approach is needed to ensure if appropriate analytical methods are available.