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16 pages, 715 KiB  
Review
Public Perceptions and Social Acceptance of Renewable Energy Projects in Epirus, Greece: The Role of Education, Demographics and Visual Exposure
by Evangelos Tsiaras, Stergios Tampekis and Costas Gavrilakis
World 2025, 6(3), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/world6030111 - 6 Aug 2025
Abstract
The social acceptance of Renewable Energy Sources (RESs) is a decisive factor in the successful implementation of clean energy projects. This study explores the attitudes, demographic profiles, and common misconceptions of citizens in the Region of Epirus, Greece, toward photovoltaic and wind energy [...] Read more.
The social acceptance of Renewable Energy Sources (RESs) is a decisive factor in the successful implementation of clean energy projects. This study explores the attitudes, demographic profiles, and common misconceptions of citizens in the Region of Epirus, Greece, toward photovoltaic and wind energy installations. Special attention is given to the role of education, age, and access to information—as well as spatial factors such as visual exposure—in shaping public perceptions and influencing acceptance of RES deployment. A structured questionnaire was administered to 320 participants across urban and rural areas, with subdivision between regions with and without visual exposure to RES infrastructure. Findings indicate that urban residents exhibit greater acceptance of RES, while rural inhabitants—especially those in proximity to installations—express skepticism, often grounded in esthetic concerns or perceived procedural injustice. Misinformation and lack of knowledge dominate in areas without visual contact. Statistical analysis confirms that younger and more educated participants are more supportive and environmentally aware. The study highlights the importance of targeted educational interventions, transparent consultation, and spatially sensitive communication strategies in fostering constructive engagement with renewable energy projects. The case of Epirus underscores the need for inclusive, place-based policies to bridge the social acceptance gap and support the national energy transition. Full article
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22 pages, 1029 KiB  
Review
Inter-Organellar Ca2+ Homeostasis in Plant and Animal Systems
by Philip Steiner and Susanna Zierler
Cells 2025, 14(15), 1204; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells14151204 - 6 Aug 2025
Abstract
The regulation of calcium (Ca2+) homeostasis is a critical process in both plant and animal systems, involving complex interplay between various organelles and a diverse network of channels, pumps, and transporters. This review provides a concise overview of inter-organellar Ca2+ [...] Read more.
The regulation of calcium (Ca2+) homeostasis is a critical process in both plant and animal systems, involving complex interplay between various organelles and a diverse network of channels, pumps, and transporters. This review provides a concise overview of inter-organellar Ca2+ homeostasis, highlighting key regulators and mechanisms in plant and animal cells. We discuss the roles of key Ca2+ channels and transporters, including IP3Rs, RyRs, TPCs, MCUs, TRPMLs, and P2XRs in animals, as well as their plant counterparts. Here, we explore recent innovations in structural biology and advanced microscopic techniques that have enhanced our understanding of these proteins’ structure, functions, and regulations. We examine the importance of membrane contact sites in facilitating Ca2+ transfer between organelles and the specific expression patterns of Ca2+ channels and transporters. Furthermore, we address the physiological implications of inter-organellar Ca2+ homeostasis and its relevance in various pathological conditions. For extended comparability, a brief excursus into bacterial intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis is also made. This meta-analysis aims to bridge the gap between plant and animal Ca2+ signaling research, identifying common themes and unique adaptations in these diverse biological systems. Full article
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24 pages, 957 KiB  
Review
Biofilm and Antimicrobial Resistance: Mechanisms, Implications, and Emerging Solutions
by Bharmjeet Singh, Manju Dahiya, Vikram Kumar, Archana Ayyagari, Deepti N. Chaudhari and Jayesh J. Ahire
Microbiol. Res. 2025, 16(8), 183; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres16080183 - 6 Aug 2025
Abstract
Biofilms are a spontaneously formed slimy matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) enveloping miniature bacterial colonies, which aid in pathogen colonization, shielding the bacteria from antibiotics, as well as imparting them resistance towards the same. Biofilms employ a robust communication mechanism called quorum [...] Read more.
Biofilms are a spontaneously formed slimy matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) enveloping miniature bacterial colonies, which aid in pathogen colonization, shielding the bacteria from antibiotics, as well as imparting them resistance towards the same. Biofilms employ a robust communication mechanism called quorum sensing that serves to keep their population density constant. What is most significant about biofilms is that they contribute to the development of bacterial virulence by providing protection to pathogenic species, allowing them to colonize the host, and also inhibiting the activities of antimicrobials on them. They grow on animate surfaces (such as on teeth and intestinal mucosa, etc.) and inanimate objects (like catheters, contact lenses, pacemakers, endotracheal devices, intrauterine devices, and stents, etc.) alike. It has been reported that as much as 80% of human infections involve biofilms. Serious implications of biofilms include the necessity of greater concentrations of antibiotics to treat common human infections, even contributing to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), since bacteria embedded within biofilms are protected from the action of potential antibiotics. This review explores various contemporary strategies for controlling biofilms, focusing on their modes of action, mechanisms of drug resistance, and innovative approaches to find a solution in this regard. This review interestingly targets the extracellular polymeric matrix as a highly effective strategy to counteract the potential harm of biofilms since it plays a critical role in biofilm formation and significantly contributes to antimicrobial resistance. Full article
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26 pages, 4329 KiB  
Article
Surveying the Perspectives of Parents and Professionals on Providing Upright, Hands-Free, Self-Initiated Mobility to Children with Severe Physical and Communication Disabilities
by Fei Luo, Sarah W. Blackstone, Jesse Canchola and Vicki Casella
Children 2025, 12(8), 1024; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12081024 - 4 Aug 2025
Viewed by 27
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Children with severe physical and communication disabilities face many challenges. They have very limited opportunities for upright, hands-free, self-initiated mobility. Current findings in neuroscience and theories on child development suggest that self-initiated mobility can have positive cascading effects on various developmental [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Children with severe physical and communication disabilities face many challenges. They have very limited opportunities for upright, hands-free, self-initiated mobility. Current findings in neuroscience and theories on child development suggest that self-initiated mobility can have positive cascading effects on various developmental areas, including language and communication. This study was conducted to examine the current use of hands-free support walkers with children who have severe physical and communication disabilities and use augmentative and alternative communication and to identify the benefits and problems perceived by their parents and professionals from different disciplines. Methods: Online surveys were utilized to collect information from 127 participants, including 31 parents and 96 professionals or paraprofessionals. Results: The participants reported that these children could perform various motor activities in the hands-free support walkers to achieve different goals. Benefits identified by both parents and professionals included providing a way to exercise and stay active, improving motor control, enhancing independence, and bringing enjoyment. Professionals also observed positive impacts on communication, vocalization, use of eye contact, and problem solving. Conclusions: Results suggest that children with severe physical and communication disabilities can benefit from the upright, hands-free, self-initiated mobility provided by hands-free support walkers. Clinical implications and needs for future research are discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Rehabilitation of Children with Disabilities: Latest Advances)
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18 pages, 2661 KiB  
Article
Resonator Width Optimization for Enhanced Performance and Bonding Reliability in Wideband RF MEMS Filter
by Gwanil Jeon, Minho Jeong, Shungmoon Lee, Youngjun Jo and Nam-Seog Kim
Micromachines 2025, 16(8), 878; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16080878 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 203
Abstract
This research investigates resonator width optimization for simultaneously enhancing electrical performance and mechanical reliability in wideband RF MEMS filters through systematic evaluation of three configurations: 0% (L1), 60% (L2), and 100% (L3) matching ratios between cap and bottom wafers using Au-Au thermocompression bonding. [...] Read more.
This research investigates resonator width optimization for simultaneously enhancing electrical performance and mechanical reliability in wideband RF MEMS filters through systematic evaluation of three configurations: 0% (L1), 60% (L2), and 100% (L3) matching ratios between cap and bottom wafers using Au-Au thermocompression bonding. The study demonstrates that resonator width alignment significantly influences both electromagnetic field coupling and bonding interface integrity. The L3 configuration with complete width matching achieved optimal RF performance, demonstrating 3.34 dB insertion loss across 4.5 GHz bandwidth (25% fractional bandwidth), outperforming L2 (3.56 dB) and L1 (3.10 dB), while providing enhanced electromagnetic wave coupling and minimized contact resistance. Mechanical reliability testing revealed superior bonding strength for the L3 configuration, withstanding up to 7.14 Kgf in shear pull tests, significantly exceeding L1 (4.22 Kgf) and L2 (2.24 Kgf). SEM analysis confirmed uniform bonding interfaces with minimal void formation (~180 nm), while Q-factor measurements showed L3 achieved optimal loaded Q-factor (QL = 3.31) suitable for wideband operation. Comprehensive environmental testing, including thermal cycling (−50 °C to +145 °C) and humidity exposure per MIL-STD-810E standards, validated long-term stability across all configurations. This investigation establishes that complete resonator width matching between cap and bottom wafers optimizes both electromagnetic performance and mechanical bonding reliability, providing a validated framework for developing high-performance, reliable RF MEMS devices for next-generation communication, radar, and sensing applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue CMOS-MEMS Fabrication Technologies and Devices, 2nd Edition)
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23 pages, 4920 KiB  
Article
Vocative Che in Falkland Islands English: Identity, Contact, and Enregisterment
by Yliana Virginia Rodríguez and Miguel Barrientos
Languages 2025, 10(8), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/languages10080182 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 299
Abstract
Falkland Islands English (FIE) began its development in the first half of the 19th century. In part, as a consequence of its youth, FIE is an understudied variety. It shares some morphosyntactic features with other anglophone countries in the Southern Hemisphere, but it [...] Read more.
Falkland Islands English (FIE) began its development in the first half of the 19th century. In part, as a consequence of its youth, FIE is an understudied variety. It shares some morphosyntactic features with other anglophone countries in the Southern Hemisphere, but it also shares lexical features with regional varieties of Spanish, including Rioplatense Spanish. Che is one of many South American words that have entered FIE through Spanish, with its spelling ranging from “chay” and “chey” to “ché”. The word has received some marginal attention in terms of its meaning. It is said to be used in a similar way to the British dear or love and the Australian mate, and it has been compared to chum or pal, and is taken as an equivalent of the River Plate, hey!, hi!, or I say!. In this work, we explore the hypothesis that che entered FIE through historical contact with Rioplatense Spanish, drawing on both linguistic and sociohistorical evidence, and presenting survey, corpus, and ethnographic data that illustrate its current vitality, usage, and social meanings among FIE speakers. In situ observations, fieldwork, and an online survey were used to look into the vitality of che. Concomitantly, by crawling social media and the local press, enough data was gathered to build a small corpus to further study its vitality. A thorough literature review was conducted to hypothesise about the borrowing process involving its entry into FIE. The findings confirm that the word is primarily a vocative, it is commonly used, and it is indicative of a sense of belonging to the Falklands community. Although there is no consensus on the origin of che in the River Plate region, it seems to be the case that it entered FIE during the intense Spanish–English contact that took place during the second half of the 19th century. Full article
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20 pages, 2403 KiB  
Article
Policies for Sustainability Transition in Tourism Destinations—The Case of Lucerne
by Fabian Weber, Yvonne Schuler, Juerg Stettler and Anna Tessa Aul
Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 6807; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17156807 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 395
Abstract
The article analyzes how tourism businesses can be activated for sustainability by destination management organizations and how a destination sustainability program can be used to promote sustainable development. Based on an applied research project in the canton of Lucerne in Switzerland, different approaches [...] Read more.
The article analyzes how tourism businesses can be activated for sustainability by destination management organizations and how a destination sustainability program can be used to promote sustainable development. Based on an applied research project in the canton of Lucerne in Switzerland, different approaches to mobilizing and activating tourism companies for sustainability are analyzed and successful strategies are identified. Experience shows that regular communication via various channels and the involvement of tourism partners are key. Direct contact between the representatives of the destinations or associations and the tourism companies is the most promising way of mobilizing them, although this also involves a great deal of effort. While intrinsically motivated businesses usually hardly need any external incentives, a considerable proportion of businesses only become active when either concrete financial incentives are promised, or they are forced to do so by regulatory requirements. The experience gained from the implementation of various mobilization strategies and their analysis enabled the authors to develop and put up for discussion a typology of motives and associated mobilization strategies. Full article
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14 pages, 276 KiB  
Article
Social Determinants of Substance Use in Black Adults with Criminal Justice Contact: Do Sex, Stressors, and Sleep Matter?
by Paul Archibald, Dasha Rhodes and Roland Thorpe
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(8), 1176; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22081176 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 314
Abstract
Substance use is a critical public health issue in the U.S., with Black communities, particularly those with criminal justice contact, disproportionately affected. Chronic exposure to stressors can lead to substance use as a coping strategy. This study used data from 1476 Black adults [...] Read more.
Substance use is a critical public health issue in the U.S., with Black communities, particularly those with criminal justice contact, disproportionately affected. Chronic exposure to stressors can lead to substance use as a coping strategy. This study used data from 1476 Black adults with criminal justice involvement from the National Survey of American Life to examine how psychosocial stress and sleep disturbances relate to lifetime substance use and to determine if there are any sex differences. Sex-separate generalized linear models for a Poisson distribution with a log-link function estimated prevalence ratios and adjusted prevalence ratios (APRs) for lifetime alcohol abuse, lifetime cigarette, and marijuana use. Independent variables include stressors (family, person, neighborhood, financial, and work-related) and sleep problems, with covariates such as age, SES, and marital status. Lifetime alcohol abuse was associated with family stressors (APR = 2.72) and sleep problems (APR = 3.36) for males, and financial stressors (APR = 2.75) and sleep problems (APR = 2.24) for females. Cigarette use was linked to family stressors (APR = 1.73) for males and work stressors (APR = 1.78) for females. Marijuana use was associated with family stressors (APR = 2.31) and sleep problems (APR = 2.07) for males, and neighborhood stressors (APR = 1.72) for females. Lifetime alcohol abuse, as well as lifetime cigarette and marijuana use, was uniquely associated with various psychosocial stressors among Black adult males and females with criminal justice contact. These findings highlight the role of structural inequities in shaping substance use and support using a Social Determinants of Health framework to address addiction in this population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 3rd Edition: Social Determinants of Health)
20 pages, 16450 KiB  
Article
A Smart Textile-Based Tactile Sensing System for Multi-Channel Sign Language Recognition
by Keran Chen, Longnan Li, Qinyao Peng, Mengyuan He, Liyun Ma, Xinxin Li and Zhenyu Lu
Sensors 2025, 25(15), 4602; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25154602 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 319
Abstract
Sign language recognition plays a crucial role in enabling communication for deaf individuals, yet current methods face limitations such as sensitivity to lighting conditions, occlusions, and lack of adaptability in diverse environments. This study presents a wearable multi-channel tactile sensing system based on [...] Read more.
Sign language recognition plays a crucial role in enabling communication for deaf individuals, yet current methods face limitations such as sensitivity to lighting conditions, occlusions, and lack of adaptability in diverse environments. This study presents a wearable multi-channel tactile sensing system based on smart textiles, designed to capture subtle wrist and finger motions for static sign language recognition. The system leverages triboelectric yarns sewn into gloves and sleeves to construct a skin-conformal tactile sensor array, capable of detecting biomechanical interactions through contact and deformation. Unlike vision-based approaches, the proposed sensor platform operates independently of environmental lighting or occlusions, offering reliable performance in diverse conditions. Experimental validation on American Sign Language letter gestures demonstrates that the proposed system achieves high signal clarity after customized filtering, leading to a classification accuracy of 94.66%. Experimental results show effective recognition of complex gestures, highlighting the system’s potential for broader applications in human-computer interaction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Tactile Sensors: Design and Applications)
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39 pages, 714 KiB  
Review
Exploring the Evolving Role of Pharmaceutical Services in Community Pharmacies: Insights from the USA, England, and Portugal
by M. Luísa G. Cunha Leal, Ana Rita Rodrigues, Victoria Bell and Mário Forrester
Healthcare 2025, 13(15), 1786; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13151786 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 530
Abstract
Chronic diseases are a leading cause of death worldwide and have a significant negative impact on public health, overall well-being, national economies, and the long-term sustainability of already burdened health systems. In addressing some of the current health challenges, the contribution of pharmacists [...] Read more.
Chronic diseases are a leading cause of death worldwide and have a significant negative impact on public health, overall well-being, national economies, and the long-term sustainability of already burdened health systems. In addressing some of the current health challenges, the contribution of pharmacists and community pharmacies is of particular significance. Pharmacists play a vital role in the medication use process, enhancing the efficacy of pharmacological interventions and facilitating the delivery of health services. Community pharmacies occupy a key position within the healthcare system, acting as a primary point of contact with the public and frequently representing the most accessible healthcare facility for patients. In recent times, community pharmacies have undergone a process of adaptation, shifting from a narrow focus on the dispensing of medications towards a more comprehensive approach that is patient-centered and incorporates a range of healthcare services, while also prioritizing the quality of the services provided. This work aims to explore the role of pharmacists in the provision of pharmaceutical services in three countries with distinct healthcare systems, examining how these services operate, the requirements for their delivery, the associated remuneration structures, and the extent of out-of-pocket costs for patients—ultimately analyzing their impact on health outcomes. Full article
15 pages, 2997 KiB  
Article
Volcanic Ash–Alkaline (Soda) Lake Water Interactions: Biogeochemical Effects in Lake Van as a Model System
by Nazlı Olgun
Water 2025, 17(15), 2171; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17152171 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 488
Abstract
Volcanic ash from explosive eruptions can significantly alter lake water chemistry through ash–water interactions, potentially influencing primary productivity. Alkaline (soda) lakes, mostly found in volcanic regions, are particularly sensitive due to their unique geochemical properties. However, the effects of volcanic ash on the [...] Read more.
Volcanic ash from explosive eruptions can significantly alter lake water chemistry through ash–water interactions, potentially influencing primary productivity. Alkaline (soda) lakes, mostly found in volcanic regions, are particularly sensitive due to their unique geochemical properties. However, the effects of volcanic ash on the biogeochemistry and phytoplankton dynamics of soda lakes remain poorly understood. This study presents the first nutrient release experiments using natural alkaline water from Lake Van (Türkiye) and volcanic ash from four volcanoes (Hekla, Arenal, Sakurajima, Rabaul-Tavurvur) with different compositions. Sixteen abiotic leaching experiments were conducted over contact durations ranging from 1 to 24 h. Results show rapid increases in pH (~0.4–0.5 units), enhanced silica and phosphate concentrations, and elevated levels of Na, K, Ca, Sr, and S. Nitrate and Mg were generally depleted. The low N:P ratio (~0.06) in Lake Van water indicated nitrogen limitation, partially mitigated by ash-derived inputs. Cyanobacteria dominated the phytoplankton community (95%), consistent with nitrogen fixation under low-nitrate conditions. Elevated silica may promote diatom growth, while changes in Mg/Ca ratios suggest possible impacts on carbonate precipitation and microbialite development. These findings highlight the biogeochemical and ecological relevance of volcanic ash inputs to soda lakes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Hydrogeology)
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10 pages, 2398 KiB  
Article
APTES-Modified Interface Optimization in PbS Quantum Dot SWIR Photodetectors and Its Influence on Optoelectronic Properties
by Qian Lei, Lei Rao, Wencan Deng, Xiuqin Ao, Fan Fang, Wei Chen, Jiaji Cheng, Haodong Tang and Junjie Hao
Colloids Interfaces 2025, 9(4), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9040049 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 297
Abstract
Lead sulfide colloidal quantum dots (PbS QDs) have demonstrated great potential in short-wave infrared (SWIR) photodetectors due to their tunable bandgap, low cost, and broad spectral response. While significant progress has been made in surface ligand modification and defect state passivation, studies focusing [...] Read more.
Lead sulfide colloidal quantum dots (PbS QDs) have demonstrated great potential in short-wave infrared (SWIR) photodetectors due to their tunable bandgap, low cost, and broad spectral response. While significant progress has been made in surface ligand modification and defect state passivation, studies focusing on the interface between QDs and electrodes remain limited, which hinders further improvement in device performance. In this work, we propose an interface engineering strategy based on 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) to enhance the interfacial contact between PbS QD films and ITO interdigitated electrodes, thereby significantly boosting the overall performance of SWIR photodetectors. Experimental results demonstrate that the optimal 0.5 h APTES treatment duration significantly enhances responsivity by achieving balanced interface passivation and charge carrier transport. Moreover, The APTES-modified device exhibits a controllable dark current and faster photo-response under 1310 nm illumination. This interface engineering approach provides an effective pathway for the development of high-performance PbS QD-based SWIR photodetectors, with promising applications in infrared imaging, spectroscopy, and optical communication. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue State of the Art of Colloid and Interface Science in Asia)
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18 pages, 20327 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Scratch-Induced Microscale Surface Roughness on Signal Transmission in Radio Frequency Coaxial Connectors
by Yuqi Zhou, Tianmeng Zhang, Gang Xie and Jinchun Gao
Micromachines 2025, 16(8), 837; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16080837 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 302
Abstract
Electrical connectors play a vital role in ensuring reliable signal transmission in high-frequency microsystems. This study explores the impact of microscale scratch-induced surface roughness on the alternating current (AC) contact impedance of RF coaxial connectors. Unlike traditional approaches that assume idealized surface conditions, [...] Read more.
Electrical connectors play a vital role in ensuring reliable signal transmission in high-frequency microsystems. This study explores the impact of microscale scratch-induced surface roughness on the alternating current (AC) contact impedance of RF coaxial connectors. Unlike traditional approaches that assume idealized surface conditions, controlled micro-defects were introduced at the central contact interface to establish a quantitative relationship between surface morphology and signal degradation. An equivalent circuit model was constructed to account for local impedance variations and the cumulative effects of cascaded connector interfaces. The model was validated using S-parameter measurements obtained from vector network analyzer (VNA) testing, showing strong agreement with simulation results. Experimental results reveal that the low-roughness (0.4 μm) contact surfaces lead to degraded signal integrity due to insufficient micro-contact formation. In contrast, scratch-induced moderate roughness (0.8–4.8 μm) improves transmission performance, although signal quality declines as roughness increases within this range. These effects are further amplified in multi-connector configurations due to accumulated impedance mismatches. This work provides new insight into the coupling between microscale surface features and frequency-domain transmission characteristics, offering practical guidance for surface engineering, contact design, and the development of miniaturized, high-reliability radio frequency interconnects for next-generation communication systems. Full article
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36 pages, 702 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Code-Switching Research Through Comparable Corpora: Introducing the El Paso Bilingual Corpus
by Margot Vanhaverbeke, Renata Enghels, María del Carmen Parafita Couto and Iva Ivanova
Languages 2025, 10(7), 174; https://doi.org/10.3390/languages10070174 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 567
Abstract
Research on language contact outcomes, such as code-switching, continues to face theoretical and methodological challenges, particularly due to the difficulty of comparing findings across studies that use divergent data collection methods. Accordingly, scholars have emphasized the need for publicly available and comparable bilingual [...] Read more.
Research on language contact outcomes, such as code-switching, continues to face theoretical and methodological challenges, particularly due to the difficulty of comparing findings across studies that use divergent data collection methods. Accordingly, scholars have emphasized the need for publicly available and comparable bilingual corpora. This paper introduces the El Paso Bilingual Corpus, a new Spanish–English bilingual corpus recorded in El Paso (TX) in 2022, designed to be methodologically comparable to the Bangor Miami Corpus. The paper is structured in three main sections. First, we review the existing Spanish–English corpora and examine the theoretical challenges posed by studies using non-comparable methodologies, thereby underscoring the gap addressed by the El Paso Bilingual Corpus. Second, we outline the corpus creation process, discussing participant recruitment, data collection, and transcription, and provide an overview of these data, including participants’ sociolinguistic profiles. Third, to demonstrate the practical value of methodologically aligned corpora, we report a comparative case study on diminutive expressions in the El Paso and Bangor Miami corpora, illustrating how shared collection protocols can elucidate the role of community-specific social factors on bilinguals’ morphosyntactic choices. Full article
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18 pages, 606 KiB  
Article
The Challenges of the VUCA World and the Education System: The Need for Change to Ensure Sustainable Learning Process
by Mihaela Minciu, Cristina Veith, Razvan Catalin Dobrea and Carmen Nadia Ciocoiu
Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6600; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146600 - 19 Jul 2025
Viewed by 547
Abstract
The accelerated transformations in the education system marked by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA) require a rethinking of pedagogical approaches. The VUCA environment requires a new educational management system in line with new technological trends in order to respond effectively to all [...] Read more.
The accelerated transformations in the education system marked by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA) require a rethinking of pedagogical approaches. The VUCA environment requires a new educational management system in line with new technological trends in order to respond effectively to all the internal and external factors that may affect the quality of teaching. A particularly important course of action is updating teaching methods by combining traditional teaching methods with new interactive methods that promote the introduction of certain digital applications during the teaching of new topics. In this sense, the quantitative research carried out in the present study among second-year students from the psycho-pedagogical program organized by the Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania, has highlighted the fact that innovative teaching methods are more effective, contributing to the development of personality and communication skills among pupils and students. Also, the results obtained after applying the Mann–Whitney test showed that there is a significant difference between students involved in different educational activities and those who do not have contact with the educational environment in terms of perceiving the volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity of the educational environment. At the same time, in the context of the VUCA world, in order to ensure the effectiveness of the teaching–learning process, teachers need to develop new skills such as stress management, adaptability, creativity, technological skills, and time management. Addressing the specific competencies that teachers need to acquire in order to improve their teaching and to respond effectively to the volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity in education, this study contributes to the creation of a sustainable education system, which is able to cope with all transformations (technological, legislative, socio-economic, etc.). The article is based on the results obtained in the postdoctoral research conducted at the end of 2024. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Creating an Innovative Learning Environment)
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