University of Trnava

Abstract Objectives Meditation techniques have attracted increasing interdisciplinary attention. However, no comprehensive, robust classification system has integrated practices across diverse traditions. This study addresses this gap by developing a unifying framework for categorizing meditation techniques. Methods Two complementary studies were conducted. In Study 1, qualitative responses from 113 adult meditators regarding their meditation practices were analyzed using framework analysis and narrative review, yielding a preliminary taxonomy. In Study 2, the classification was expanded and refined through a systematic literature review conducted under the PRISMA guidelines, resulting in 113 relevant articles from the PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, and these were subsequently narratively reviewed. Results A novel, unifying framework was developed based on the object of meditation technique and a multi-dimensional approach to personhood. The taxonomy comprises five typology clusters (physical, emotional, psychological, spiritual, and mixed), two classes (based on happiness or meaning orientation), and three variants (kataphatic vs. apophatic, formal vs. informal, and guided vs. unguided). Conclusions The proposed framework presents a systematic and integrative approach to classifying meditation techniques across diverse contemplative traditions. It provides a more precise structure for understanding the relationships between different practices, thus establishing a foundation for investigating the underlying mechanisms. This framework may also enhance the rigor of measurement in mindfulness research by offering a more refined categorization. Furthermore, it has practical implications for practitioners, enabling them to select techniques tailored to their specific goals, thereby bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical application. Preregistration This study was not preregistered.

This paper presents the results of investigations carried out in the Danube riverbed between Brigetio and the northern shore at today’s Iža‑Leányvár. It begins with a concise overview of previous research—undertaken mainly on the north bank—which prompted the Slovak team to examine the river itself and ultimately led to the discovery of the piers of a Roman bridge. It then reports the aim, methods, and results of the most recent underwater work conducted in December 2022. The survey confirms that the structure was erected between the 3rd and 4th centuries AD. The paper concludes by outlining future avenues of inquiry to improve our understanding of the hitherto unknown Roman bridge across the Danube, its construction, and the reasons for its erection.

BackgroundASD has been more often diagnosed and researched in men than women, shaping diagnostic criteria which may not adequately capture the female presentation. Examining differences between girls and boys with ASD could enhance diagnostic accuracy and help reduce gender-related biases in research and clinical practice. The aim of this research was to analyze potential differences in autistic traits, intelligence, and executive functions of school-aged girls and boys diagnosed with ASD without intellectual disability.MethodsThe research sample consisted of 79 children with ASD, 20 girls and 59 boys, aged between 6 and 12 years. Autistic traits were measured by Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule – Second Version and Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised, intelligence by the Woodcock-Johnson International Editions II, and executive functions by Wisconsin Card Sorting Test and Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function 2.ResultsGirls scored lower in the amount of restricted, repetitive and stereotyped behaviors, but showed more severe deficits in Emotion Regulation, Cognitive Regulation and clinical scales Shift and Initiate, as measured by BRIEF-2.ConclusionOur results indicate girls with ASD exhibit certain differences from boys with ASD, which may be diagnostically relevant and helpful for their early detection and access to necessary resources and support. Nevertheless, extensive further research on the sex/gender differences and female ASD presentation is still needed.

Abstract This study investigates the influence of cutting tool macrogeometry on the surface roughness of thin-walled Inconel 718 components produced by Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM). Several tools with varying geometrical features were tested with the goal of minimizing vibration during machining. However, some tool parameter configurations led to visible marks on the machined surface. Machined surface roughness was analyzed using focus variation microscopy, evaluating roughness parameters arithmetic mean roughness ( Ra ) and maximum height of the profile ( Rz ) to capture key surface characteristics. A comparison was made between the tool that demonstrated the lowest wear and the tool that achieved the best surface finish. The analysis revealed that while certain tool geometries reduced wear, they did not necessarily result in improved surface quality. Additionally, insufficient coolant delivery to the cutting zone was identified as a contributing factor to irregular surface patterns. The findings highlight the importance of carefully selecting tool geometry and optimizing process conditions when machining WAAM-produced thin-walled parts from Inconel 718.

A bstract The research paper deals with the adaptability of Ginkgo biloba L . and its growth and physiological responses under conditions of water scarcity. We hypothesised that under conditions of water scarcity, Ginkgo would use adaptive mechanisms that would allow it to manage water efficiently and, at the same time, survive the dry season. Two experimental variants were set up with plants in the juvenile stage of ontogeny with differentiated irrigation. In the control variant, the soil substrate was saturated with water to 70% of the field’s water capacity. The water saturation of the substrate of the stressed plants was 40%. The differentiated irrigation regime was introduced at the beginning of June and maintained until the beginning of September. The results of three years of research were evaluated. Based on the results, we can conclude that Ginkgo biloba has an exceptional ability to protect the water content of the leaves under conditions of water shortage, which probably allows it to survive a prolonged period of drought. However, the survival strategy of the lack of water leads to a significant limitation of the growth of the whole plant, including the root system.

Abstract Segments in spoken and sign language interaction do not produce individual units in isolation but in a continuous stream of expression. When using language for communication, the forms of segments can be simplified to make communication more efficient for both communicators and communicants. This communication can result in changes in the way formal units of language are formed. It follows that, as in spoken languages, there are considerable differences in how sign languages are articulated. The differences may manifest in lexis and syntax and in phonetic differences related to social and linguistic factors. In this paper, we focus on the linguistic factors causing differences in the articulation of signs, specifically on the phonological processes within which different adaptations in the forms of signs may occur. For this reason, we will approach several phonological processes in the stream of signing occurring in different national sign languages compared to Slovak sign language and their characteristic features. Understanding phonological processes in the realization of signing can enrich the field of phonetics and phonology in general.

This article explores the application of storytelling as a cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) tool for older adults, emphasizing its effectiveness in illustrating the role of avoidance and exposure in anxiety recovery. Integrating a complete theoretical introduction and narrative case example with conceptual support from psychoeducational materials, the article demonstrates how storytelling facilitates therapeutic insight and engagement, particularly in older populations.

Abstract In recent decades, there has been a broad scholarly debate on the purpose behind the writing of the Exagoge . In this article, we argue that the Exagoge was an effort by the Jewish Hellenistic tragedian Ezekiel to depict the founding Jewish story of Exodus as part of the Ptolemaic imperial history. Ezekiel’s Moses is the founder of the royal authority of the Ptolemies. Ezekiel’s endeavor in this regard is consistent with the efforts of Pseudo-Eupolemus or Artapanus to present key figures in Israelite history as those who stood at the foundation of Egyptian and Greek cultures. It will be shown that an essential feature of Ezekiel’s approach is his careful attention to the cultural interactions among the Greek, Egyptian, and Hebrew worlds. Using this strategy, Ezekiel sought to promote loyalty to the ruling Ptolemaic king by the same means as the latter was promoted as pharaoh in Egypt.

IntroductionThis study addresses changes in peripheral blood immune cell composition and possible late effects of curative treatment in testicular germ cell tumors (GCT) survivors.MethodsWe analyzed the immunophenotype in peripheral blood obtained from 202 survivors treated at the National Cancer Institute in Bratislava by flow cytometry. The median long-term follow-up was 13 years (1-35). We divided the survivors into groups as follows: CT-chemotherapy (N = 141), RT-radiotherapy (N = 16), CTRT – chemotherapy + radiotherapy (N = 13), and the control group of patients under active surveillance - AS (N = 32).ResultsSurvivors treated with AS had a lower number of B-cells (mean ± standard deviation (SD) = 10.3 ± 3.5 vs 11.9 ± 4.2, p=0.04) compared to the CT group. Survivors treated with AS vs RT had a higher number of total lymphocytes (29.8 ± 7.7 vs 25.2 ± 6.3, p=0.04). In AS vs CTRT group B-cells (10.3 ± 3.5 vs 13.7 ± 5, p=0.01) and conventional dendritic cells (cDCs) (74.3 ± 11.8 vs 82.5 ± 6.7, p=0.04) showed lower numbers. Survivors treated with AS vs. ≤ 400 mg/m2 cumulative dose of cisplatin had fewer eosinophils (2.29 ± 1.5 vs 2.99 ± 1.7, p=0.03) and double-negative T-cells (DNT cells) (4.7 ± 3.4 vs 6.6 ± 6.6, p=0.04). In AS vs. ≥ 400 mg/m2, B cells counts were lower in the control group (10.96 ± 5.3 vs 12.3 ± 4.8, p=0.03); treatment with ≤ 400 mg/m2 vs. ≥ 400 mg/m2 resulted in higher counts of eosinophils (3.0 ± 1.7 vs 2.1 ± 1.7, p=0.00025) and DNT cells (6.7 ± 6.7 vs 4.9 ± 3.6, p=0.02).ConclusionsOur study demonstrates an association between both cisplatin-based chemotherapy and radiotherapy with specific immune cell populations, suggesting that these treatment modalities may exert long-term immunomodulatory effects.