Present Paper Research Articles

СHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF THE CHRISTIAN AND PAGAN METAL ANTIQUITIES FROM THE EXCAVATIONS AT MEDIEVAL NOVGOROD ON THE BASE OF INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH

The present paper focuses on the new results of elemental analysis of 94 metal objects attributed to the Christian and pagan artifacts. They have been found at the excavation of Medieval Novgorod and the Novgorod region. The analytical data obtained by EDXRF in the frame of interdisciplinary research project. It includes mostly pendant-crosses as well as the round pendants and mounts with Saints, fragments of the church polycandelons and the pagan pendant-amulets. Obtained results have been examined statistically. Tin-lead bronzes clearly dominate the selection. There are also mixed copper alloys (gunmetal) with tin, zinc, and lead and lead brass. The proportions of silver and pewter alloys as well as pure tin and lead are modest. Obtained data supplemented by further research on the base of Pb-isotope methods and ICP MS results and their geological interpretation will allow to trace the ore sources of the metal objects from Novgorod.

Breaking Barriers: The Role of 'Professional English and Communication' Courses in Medical Education

The present paper explores the significant role of effective English communication in enhancing the physician-patient relationship in multicultural healthcare settings. The primary objective is to evaluate the impact of a specialized "Professional English and Communication" course on the communication skills of medical students at East-West Teaching University in Tbilisi, Georgia. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study included a quantitative survey and qualitative feedback from a cohort of 11 students, both native and non-native speakers, enrolled in the Medical Doctor One-Cycle Educational Program. During the 13-week course, students engaged in role-plays and discussions based on structured scenarios. Findings indicated the high effectiveness of the course, with students rating it as significantly impactful in improving their professional English and communication skills. Notably, students reported increased engagement and comfort in participating in class activities following the implementation of structured guidelines for role-plays. The study concludes by affirming the value of targeted communication skills training in medical education, particularly through practical activities such as role-plays. Feedback also highlighted the importance of a supportive and inclusive learning environment in promoting engagement and overcoming challenges. These findings have implications for designing similar courses to cater to diverse student populations in the medical field. Further research should explore the long-term impact of such courses on students' professional practices and patient outcomes.

Dynamic in situ measurement of axial segregation of E-CAT particles in a bubbling fluidized bed

The present paper summarizes comprehensive in situ measurements of the temporal segregation/mixing behavior of the non-spherical Geldart B and D E-CAT particles mixture in a bubbling fluidized bed. The experiments are performed for both unsieved and sieved E-CAT particles with varying particle size distribution width and at the fluidization velocity ranging from 1.3 to 5Umf. The high-speed pressure and image data were used to provide time-resolved quantification of dynamic expanded bed height and pressure drop during the experiment. In parallel, a hybrid machine learning-aided image processing algorithm has been developed for quantifying the instantaneous particle size distribution at varying axial locations. Results reveal that the segregation exists only at low fluidization velocities (1.3 and 1.6Umf) for unsieved cases with a wider size distribution. In contrast, particles with a narrower distribution exhibited well-mixed behavior for the full range of tested gas velocities. The segregation intensity and spatial extent were found to correlate with particle size distribution width and fluidization velocity, respectively. In addition, by analyzing pressure, expanded bed height, particle size and motion, and bubble characteristics, we provided a comprehensive multi-scale dynamic view of the segregation process. This in-depth understanding of the process, coupled with the time-resolved datasets obtained, can be instrumental for benchmarking numerical models in solid–gas multiphase flows and for optimizing the design of fluidized beds.

Variability in Chemical Composition and Biochemical Activities of Mentha x piperita L. Essential Oil, in Response to Mycorrhizal Symbiosis and Heavy Metal Stress.

The present paper highlights the effect of Pb/Cd-stress and/or mycorrhizal colonization by Glomus Intraradices on yield, chemical composition, cytotoxicity and antimicrobial activity of Mentha x piperita L. essential oil. Our findings showed that mycorrhizal colonization could be used to improve the essential oil yield of M. x piperita, either in non-stressed or Pb/Cd-stressed plants. GC-MS analysis revealed three chemotypes: linalool/pulegone (32.6/30.8 %) chemotype in essential oils of non-mycorrhizal Pb-stressed plants, menthone/menthyl acetate (30.3/25.1 %) chemotype in essential oils of non-mycorrhizal Cd-stressed plants and menthol (44.6 %) chemotype in essential oils of non-mycorrhizal non-stressed plants, mycorrhizal non-stressed plants and mycorrhizal Pb/Cd-stressed plants. The cytotoxicity of M. x piperita essential oil, evaluated by brine shrimp lethality bioassay, was increased in presence of Pb/Cd-stress (from 379.58 to 72.84 μm/mL) and decreased in mycorrhizal plants (from 379.58 to 482.32 μm/mL). The antimicrobial activity of M. x piperita essential oil, evaluated by disc diffusion method and determination of Minimum Inhibitory Concentration against ten microorganisms, was enhanced by the mycorrhizal colonization and deceased by the Pb/Cd-stress. In conclusion, the inoculation of medicinal plants with mycorrhizal fungi is a real avenue for alleviating abiotic stress and/or increasing the quantity and quality of secondary metabolites in terms of biological activities.

Assessment of Financial Information Quality: Evidence from Tunisian Context

The present paper aims at assessing the financial information quality within Tunisian firms. We analyzed a sample annual data of 78 financial and non-financial Tunisian listed companies. We use the level of discretionary accruals and if the firm restate its financial statement or not as proxies of financial information quality. Our main results show that the financial information quality is globally low. We note a high level of discretionary accruals within financial firms compared to non-financial pears. We also find that financial firms are less likely to restate their financial statements compared to those of non-financial firms.

On perturbation of continuous frames in Hilbert C *-modules

Abstract In the present paper, we examine the perturbation of continuous frames and Riesz-type frames in Hilbert C * {C^{*}} -modules. We extend the Casazza–Christensen general perturbation theorem for Hilbert space frames to continuous frames in Hilbert C * {C^{*}} -modules. We obtain a necessary condition under which the perturbation of a Riesz-type frame of Hilbert C * {C^{*}} -modules remains to be a Riesz-type frame. Also, we examine the effect of duality on the perturbation of continuous frames in Hilbert C * {C^{*}} -modules, and we prove that if the operator frame of a continuous frame F is near to the combination of the synthesis operator of a continuous Bessel mapping G and the analysis operator of F, then G is a continuous frame.

Outlier detection using flexible categorization and interrogative agendas

Categorization is one of the basic tasks in machine learning and data analysis. Building on formal concept analysis (FCA), the starting point of the present work is that different ways to categorize a given set of objects exist, which depend on the choice of the sets of features used to classify them, and different such sets of features may yield better or worse categorizations, relative to the task at hand. In their turn, the (a priori) choice of a particular set of features over another might be subjective and express a certain epistemic stance (e.g. interests, relevance, preferences) of an agent or a group of agents, namely, their interrogative agenda. In the present paper, we represent interrogative agendas as sets of features, and explore and compare different ways to categorize objects w.r.t. different sets of features (agendas). We first develop a simple unsupervised FCA-based algorithm for outlier detection which uses categorizations arising from different agendas. We then present a supervised meta-learning algorithm to learn suitable (fuzzy) agendas for categorization as sets of features with different weights or masses. We combine this meta-learning algorithm with the unsupervised outlier detection algorithm to obtain a supervised outlier detection algorithm. We show that these algorithms perform at par with commonly used algorithms for outlier detection on commonly used datasets in outlier detection. These algorithms provide both local and global explanations of their results.

Imploding Detonation Waves in Self-gravitating Ideal Gas

In the present paper, the propagation of strong spherical imploding detonation waves in a reacting ideal gas under the effect of self-gravitation of the non-homogeneous medium has been investigated, by the help of Chester-Chisnell-Whitham (CCW) theory. It is considered that detonation wave is initially Chapman-Jouguet. Initial taking the density distribution law as power decreasing with distance, the analytical expressions for the detonation velocity just behind the front along with other flow variables are derived. Neglecting the effect of overtaking disturbances the variation of non-dimensional detonation velocity, the pressure and density with the propagation distance have been calculated numerically. The effect of change in density parameter at different Alfven Mach number on the convergence of detonation front have been discussed through graphs in details. Finally, it is found that density parameter and Alfven Mach number of gas have a significant role on propagation of strong spherical detonation front in reacting ideal gas with gravitation effect on all the post-flow variables. The software MATLAB have been used for computation of the problem. Keywords: Self-gravitating gas, Strong detonation waves, CCW theory.

First principle study of structural, electronic, optical, and thermoelectric properties of Zr1-x MxNiSn (M = Ta, Nb and x = 0.25, 0.5, 0.75) half Heusler compounds: Green energy applications

In the present paper, the physical properties of doped Zr1-x MxNiSn (M = Ta, Nb and x = 0.25, 0.5, 0.75) half Heusler compound were investigated using density functional theory (DFT) with GGA-PBE and Tran-Blaha modified Becke-Johnson (TB-mBJ) exchange potentials. The Full Potential Linearized Augmented Plane Wave (FP-LAPW) technique was used as incorporated in the WIEN2k code. The band structures, as well as the density of states (DOS), are also studied. The lattice constants of 6.15 Å for pure and 6.12 Å reinforced compounds are obtained. The results show that pure alloys are semiconducting, and doped alloys are metallic. The elastic properties were also examined, and the results indicate that the compounds are mechanically stable. The optical properties such as absorption coefficient (I), optical conductivity (σ), electron energy-loss (L), refractive index (n), and extinction coefficient (K) were determined using the dielectric constants (ε). The optical results revealed that the materials are potential candidates for optoelectronic energy applications. The transport properties were also studied. The doping of Ta and Nb in ZrNiSn alloy increases the electrical conductivity in both GGA-PBE and TB-mBJ approaches. The electrical conductivity for pure ZrNiSn at room temperature is 4.67 × 1018 Ω−1m−1s−1 and it increases to 4.34 × 1020 Ω−1m−1s−1 for Zr0.5Ta0.5NiSn in GGA-PBE approach. The thermal conductivity's electrical component is increased by substituting Ta and Nb in the pure compound. The optical and thermoelectric properties make the materials a suitable candidate for green energy applications.

Lajonquierea koshkini sp. nov. from lowland rainforests of northern Borneo, Malaysia (Lepidoptera: Lasiocampidae)

In the present paper, we describe Lajonquierea koshkini sp. nov., a new species from lowland rainforests of northern Borneo. This species is a sister species to Lajonquierea mediofasciata (Grunberg, 1913) distributed in montane rainforests of Borneo. The new species can easily be distinguished by its wing coloration and forewing pattern. Additionally, the male genitalia of Lajonquierea koshkini sp. nov. differ from those of Lajonquierea mediofasciata by the thin and curved valves with the small spine-like basal processes, as well as by the wide finger-like terminal processes at the cubile arms (they are spine-like in Lajonquierea mediofasciata). The new species is dedicated to Evgeny S. Koshkin, a Russian entomologist.

Carbon Covering Method to Enhance the Storage Capacity of Materials Belonging to the Conversion and Alloy Storage Types

AbstractDriven by the development of energy storage systems (EESs), finding alternative anode materials forlithium‐ion batteries to replace the general carbon materials is becoming a hot research topic in the world. Using the metal oxides, metal sulfides, metal phosphides, metal selenides belonging to the conversion type and Sn, Sb, Bi, Ge, P and Si belonging to the alloy storage type seems to be a preferred option. Nevertheless, the demerits such as volume expansion and bad conductivity of alternative materials restrict their practical application. Carbon covering is an efficacious strategy to deal with the aforementioned issues because it can restrict the volume expansion and improve the conductivity of the composite materials effectively. This present review paper comprehensively describes the suitable carbon resources and preparation methods for expanding the practical applications of materials belonging to the conversion type and ally type in fabrications of negative electrodes.

Agency, functionalism, and all that. A Sraffian view

Former contributions examined the approach to institutions and economic history that can be derived from the classical and Marxian 'surplus approach' as particularly recovered by Piero Sraffa (1951) and Pierangelo Garegnani (1960). The present paper deals with the allegation levelled against historical materialism-and consequently against the surplus approach to institutions-of organicism or functionalism. Organicism is said to look at individuals as passive vectors functionally serving in various capabilities the reproduction and destiny of society as a whole. In this way human agency in the operation and change of society is excluded or at least restrained. Methodological individualism is the traditional alternative supported both by neoclassical and by (some) Marxist schools. The literature over the 'agency versus structure' determination of human behaviour in social and human sciences is immense. I will therefore limit myself to some episodes that may however provide enough food for thought on this field. I shall defend a functionalist view of society while giving space to individual intentional action and aspirations, albeit informed by historical conditioning circumstances. Historical reconstruction of the objective and subjective features of the economic formations under examination, rather than the empty and a-historical study of individual choices, unrelated to the social context, looks like the way to go. Agency must be historically contextualised.

Do you prefer logging in? The relevance of the experience of telework for well-being

PurposeThe swift and unanticipated integration of telework by European companies due to COVID-19 gave rise to distinct features of telework. These attributes underscore the necessity of analysing its impact on employees’ well-being. This paper explores how telework experiences impact well-being by influencing work–life balance and job satisfaction. Additionally, it investigates whether employee preferences for telework are a contributing factor.Design/methodology/approachBased on the data provided by the “living, working and COVID-19” e-survey, structural equation models (SEM) were used to test the hypotheses. Specifically, a multiple-mediation approach and path analyses were applied to measure the relationship between the variables under study. The moderating role of preference for telework was also tested.FindingsKey findings support that telework experience has a positive impact on well-being, both directly and indirectly, particularly via work–life balance. Although preference for telework strengthens the relationship between telework experience and well-being, it does not enhance the predictive power of the mediated model.Practical implicationsThese results have important implications from an applied perspective. Human capital departments as well as managers should design telework programmes to create a positive experience since this will ensure a positive influence on the perception of work–life balance, job satisfaction and well-being.Originality/valueCOVID-19 as a sudden environmental constraint forced the implementation of telework without proper planning and training. Thus, how the employees experience this major change in their working conditions has affected their well-being. The present paper contributes to clarifying how the proposed variables relate under such constraints.

Generic flame extension model development based on machine learning for NPPs fire hazard analysis (FHA)

Abstract In enclosed fire situations, the flame interacts with ceiling and its length extension take place, altering the fire severity significantly. Fire safety analysis demand a generic flame extension model. A generic reliable model is not available as the construct of flame itself had wide variation in literature. The present paper aims to develop a Machine Learning (ML) based generic model of non-dimensional flame extension as a function of non-dimensional Heat Release Rate (HRR). The non-dimensional scaling reduces the number of parameter and also provide a generic nature. Literature review was utilized to collect the data from various open literature sources. This eliminates the limitations of individual correlations and gives a best optimized model which is valid for a wide range of flow regimes and conditions as compared to a specific correlation. Various simple ML models are compared for their performance against test data and a MARS based model was finally recommended. The MARS model was tested against the data which was not used in training and also against the other reported correlation. The developed model has performed well against the test data and marked improvement over other reported correlation as a better optimized performance over an extended range of non-dimensional range. The results of the model were also conservative as compared to another model in the most of the practical requirement of NPPs. A Large Eddy Simulation (LES) based CFD code FDS was also used to generate the flame extension data for demonstrating conservative nature of the ML model.

Challenging the gold standard consensus: Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and their pitfalls in evidence-based education

ABSTRACT This paper seeks to raise awareness among educational researchers and practitioners of some significant weaknesses and internal contradictions of randomised control trials (RCTs). Although critiques throughout the years from education scholars have pointed to the detrimental effects of this experimental approach on education practice and values, RCTs are considered the gold standard for assessing the impact of education policies and interventions. By drawing on the approach of immanent critique, we elucidate substantial argumentative gaps between the assumptions and applications – that is, between the theory and reality – of RCTs in empirical research. This kind of analytic exercise complements existing critiques from outside the experimental discourse based on moral and epistemic principles. The present paper, in contrast, contributes to the literature by highlighting internal limitations and contradictions that can be seen by probing the logic espoused by those who are proponents of RCTs. In fleshing out our argument, we seek to encourage more informed and critical engagement by educators, policymakers, and researchers, among other stakeholders, when they are confronted with proposals for education programmes and reforms supported by findings from RCTs.

Bioenergy and Biopesticides Production in Serbia—Could Invasive Alien Species Contribute to Sustainability?

The critical role of energy in contemporary life and the environmental challenges associated with its production imply the need for research and exploration of its novel resources. The present review paper emphasizes the continuous exploitation of non-renewable energy sources, suggesting the transition toward renewable energy sources, termed ‘green energy’, as a crucial step for sustainable development. The research methodology involves a comprehensive review of articles, statistical data analysis, and examination of databases. The main focus is biomass, a valuable resource for bioenergy and biopesticide production, highlighting not only its traditional diverse sources, such as agricultural waste and industrial residues, but also non-edible invasive alien plant species. This study explores the utilization of invasive alien species in circular economy practices, considering their role in bioenergy and biopesticide production. The potential conflict between bioproduct acquisition and food sector competition is discussed, along with the need for a shift in approaching non-edible biomass sources. The paper emphasizes the untapped potential of under-explored biomass resources and the necessity for policy alignment and public awareness. Species with a significant potential for these sustainable strategies include Acer negundo L., Ailanthus altisima (Mill.) Swingle., Amorpha fruticosa L., Elaengus angustifolia L., Falopia japonica (Houtt.) Ronse Decr., Hibiscus syriacus L., Koelreuteria paniculata Laxm., Paulownia tomentosa Siebold and Zucc., Partenocissus quenquefolia (L.) Planch., Rhus typhina L., Robinia pseudoacacia L. and Thuja orientalis L. In conclusion, the paper highlights the intertwined relationship between energy, environmental sustainability, and circular economy principles, providing insights into Serbia’s efforts and potential in adopting nature-based solutions for bioenergy and biopesticides acquisition.

Design, Fabrication, and Experimental Analysis of a PV Panel for a Smart Sunflower System

The Smartflower, an innovative compact energy-generation system inspired by sunflowers, stands out in energy innovation. Unlike traditional photovoltaic (PV) panels, it integrates foldable solar cells within a foundational structure for solar tracking aligned with the sun's path. The present paper focuses on designing, fabricating, and analyzing a proposed Smartflower-PV panel solar system. The study aims to comprehensively evaluate the performance of the proposed PV panel under different atmospheric conditions. The significant impact of insolation and temperature on the panel's efficiency was revealed by comparing empirical results from the PV sunflower panel with analytical calculations using MATLAB (m. file code). Enhanced solar radiation improved the system’s performance and efficiency, resulting in higher power output. Analytical insights showed a direct correlation between a 104% increase in solar radiation and parallel increases of 115% in peak power production and 100% in output current. Conversely, higher temperatures reduced power output, with a 400% temperature rise causing an 11.11% power reduction. Empirical observations align with analytical analyses under equivalent conditions, validating the model’s accuracy. This study serves as a catalyst and guide for completing and advancing the Smartflower system's manufacturing, including control, tracking, and the entire energy-generation framework.

The Promotion of Traditional Values through Films and Television Programmes: The Moscow Patriarchate and the Orthodox Encyclopaedia Project (2005–2022)

On 26 May 2011, the Russian People’s World Council issued a document entitled The Basic Values: The Fundaments of National Unity. The document, prepared by the Synodal Department for Church–Society Cooperation, provided a catalogue of 17 traditional values whose general framework was constituted by a combination of freedom, unity, patriotism, family, and devotion. At that time, the Moscow Patriarchate considered religious faith to be the foundation of traditional values and it continues to do so. The defence and promotion of traditional Russian spiritual and moral values were also central in the Russian National Security Strategy (2015); this was the case in the updated version of this document as well, put out in July 2021. Furthermore, they have been the core of the Moscow Patriarchate’s participation in the Council of Europe and of Patriarch Kirill’s speeches about the war in Ukraine. Finally, on 9 November 2022, The Foundations Of State Policy For The Preservation Of Spiritual And Moral Values was approved. This framework permits us to understand the strict interplay between the Church and the State in the Russian Federation and to see why it is important to refer to the concept of post-secularism when talking about the role of religion in post-Soviet Russia. Proceeding from the Abstract, the present paper aims to analyse this interplay in a specific sector of visual culture: the cinema and television industries. Manuel Castells highlighted the relevance of cultural values in the age of information and the connection between the values and social mobilization that follows it. He pointed out that the Internet has become a way to render this connection predominant, inevitably leading to the development of social movements and networks that have a religious basis. This is unquestionably true; surveys conducted by the Russian Public Opinion Research Center (OJSC «VCIOM») and by Nevafilm Research confirm that a high percentage of Russians watch films not only at the cinema or on television (especially the older generations) but also on the Internet (as far as the younger generations are concerned). The importance of this market is also confirmed by the success of the cinema and TV distributor Orthodox Encyclopaedia (2005); in the words of the philosopher Sergei Kravets, who, commenting on it during an interview published in 2006 by the website Sedmits.ru, declared that the expression “orthodox cinema” can be understood as a way to express Russian culture. He asserts that “the fact that today Orthodox films have begun to appear on the central TV channels testifies that Russian film producers and viewers have apparently begun to be aware of themselves as Orthodox, to feel that they are bearers of a special Orthodox culture. [..]”. At the same time, consideration should be given to the importance of the Russian Orthodox Church and the Minister of Culture’s condemnation of films such as Matilda or Monastery. In addition, it is important to consider that, according to a survey conducted in 2022 by the Levada Center, Russian people consider television the most reliable source of information (54%). The long-term implications of this tendency may have very important effects, not only in terms of its objectives but also in terms of the consideration that, after the beginning of the war, many Western film distributors withdrew their licenses from Russia. This paper will analyse “the effect of religion on the institutional system, the regulatory environment of the media and the public sphere” by studying the features of films and TV programs distributed by Orthodox Encyclopaedia, their relations with traditional values promoted both by the Kremlin and the Church, how these have contributed to strengthening the interplay between the Minister of Culture and the Moscow Patriarchate, and the impact this process has had on Russian society and Russia’s relations with the European and Western World in the 2005–2022 period. A list of the films and TV programs being discussed will be provided, and then statements about the project and reviews of the serials and films will be analysed. The analysis will be conducted mainly through the official sites of the Russian Orthodox Church and the Kremlin and by browsing the Integrum database.

Guided wave resonance identification of interface delamination in bimaterial composites

Laminate composites are widely used in industrial applications due to their high material strength and efficiency. In such materials, impact loads can cause internal delaminations at the bonding interfaces between sublayers, which further growth during operation could lead to structural failure. Guided wave based non-destructive testing allows detecting such hidden delamination, which manifests itself in the wavefield disturbance at the obstacle vicinity. However, their sizing requires sophisticated post-processing of the acquired wave signals. In our previous studies, a method for sizing an internal strip-like crack in a homogeneous elastic plate has been developed and experimentally approved. The method is based on the numerical evaluation of the scattering resonance frequencies depending on the crack size, and their comparison with the experimentally obtained ones. In the present paper, we extend this approach to the case of dissimilar-material laminates. Numerical simulation and laser Doppler vibrometry measurements were carried out for bi-layer samples composed of various combinations of glued steel, aluminium, and glass sublayers with artificial strip-like delamination. The results obtained confirm the possibility of damage width estimation using the values of scattering resonance frequencies extracted from the signals acquired at the sample surface.

Decrease in Leptin Expression in the Liver after Prolonged Every-Other-Day Feeding in C57Bl/6 Male Mice

Background: The positive effects of prolonged every-other-day (EOD) feeding include decreased body weight and prolonged life span, but also changes in liver metabolism and functions. In the present paper, our aim was to examine the expression of adiponectin (ADIPOQ), leptin, and their receptors (ADIPOR1, ADIPOR2, and LEPR) in the liver tissue of EOD-fed mice in comparison to ad libitum (AL)-treated mice. Methods: After 9 months of EOD treatment, liver tissue was harvested and prepared for analysis. RT-PCR, protein semi-quantitative estimation, and cellular immunolocalization was performed. Results: We noted a decreased expression of leptin in the liver tissue of the EOD male mice in comparison to the AL mice on the protein level. ADIPOQ receptor R1 protein expression was decreased in the liver of EOD-fed male mice, while the expression of ADIPOR2 on the protein level was increased in the EOD animals. Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report showing ADIPOQ and leptin immunolocalization in the liver tissue in a dietary regime experiment. Decreases in leptin expression and IL-6 expression in liver tissue and increases in ADIPOR2 expression may be partly responsible for the beneficial effects of EOD treatment in the liver, including the decrease in inflammation. Further studies are needed to establish whether these changes depend on factors like the type of treatment, species, strain, gender, time of treatment, and others.